Self-Esteem, Depression, Hopelessness, and Suicidal Intent Among Psychiatrically Disturbed Inpatient Children

Depression, hopelessness & self-esteem were evaluated in suicidal ideation & attempts among 123 inpatient children (age 6-13). Suicidal children reported significantly greater depression, hopelessness & lower self-esteem than did nonsuicidal children. Depression was the single best predictor of suicidal ideation or attempts. Suicidal girls were classified with greater accuracy than suicidal boys. Depression & related cognitive domains discriminate the 2 groups & vary by child age & sex. (46 ref)