Parental Representation in Suicidal Adolescents: a Controlled Study

187 adolescents referred to outpatient & residential services in 3 Canadian cities were assessed for lifetime suicidal ideation & attempt, & administered the Parental Bonding Instrument. Suicidal adolescents of both genders reported lower care & higher overprotection in relation to their mothers than non-suicidal subjects, & females subjects reported this pattern for their fathers as well. The findings extend previous reports of higher “affectionless control” in suicidal adults, but suggest that this pattern may be stronger in females than males, & that maternal influences may be stronger than paternal influences. (45 refs.)