Expressed Emotion and Hopelessness: a Path to Adolescent Suicide?

This study examined the hypothesis that Parental Expressed Emotion (high criticism, emotional over-involvement & low care) would be related to adolescent suicidal behaviour, with hopelessness acting as a mediating variable. 307 high school students completed a self-report questionnaire. 49% of the students reported suicidal ideation & 9% reported attempting suicide. There were significant relationships between parental criticism, overprotection & care, & a range of suicidal behaviours.