Suicide, Childhood (IN: Encyclopedia of Primary Prevention and Health Promotion, edited by M Bloom and Gullotta)

This encyclopedia entry discusses & defines the problem of suicide in children under the age of 14. Suicide rates & related statistics for this age group are presented. Relevant theories & important research into causes of suicide in children are discussed. Strategies for preventing youth suicide are described in terms of levels of efficacy: those that do work, those that might work, & those that do not work. Concluding thoughts emphasize the need for increased awareness & further research into causal & risk factors for suicide among this age group. (39 refs)