Childhood Diagnoses and Later Risk for Multiple Suicide Attempts

The relationship between childhood diagnosis, personality psychopathology & suicidal behavior in young adulthood was explored in a sample of 327 suicide ideators, single attempters, & multiple attempters. Of the total sample, 174 received at least one childhood diagnosis. Results suggest that a childhood history of an anxiety disorder or major depression predispose a person to both later multiple suicide attempts & personality psychopathology. Gender was found to play a significant role. Implications are discussed in terms of etiology, prevention, & treatment. (48 refs)