Effects of Sexual Victimization on Suicidal Ideation and Behavior in U.S. College Women

This study examined the relationship of suicidal ideation & behaviour & 5 types of sexual victimization in a sample of 339 female undergraduate students. Adult sexual victimization, but not childhood sexual abuse, predicted current hopelessness & suicidal ideation. Both childhood sexual abuse & adult sexual victimization predicted suicidal behaviour. Findings point to the importance of inquiring about sexual victimization when conducting research or treatment with suicidal women. (105 refs.)