Associations Between Delinquency and Suicidal Behaviors in a Nationally Representative Sample of Adolescents

The 2003 Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System was used to examine associations between suicidal behaviours & delinquency in a nationally representative sample of 14-17 year olds. Results showed that delinquent adolescents were more likely to have seriously considered suicide, made a suicide plan, attempted suicide, & required medical treatment after attempting suicide compared to their nondelinquent counterparts. The results suggest that delinquent youth, particularly delinquent girls, should be targeted in interventions to reduce suicidal behaviours. (37 refs)