The Prevalence and Comorbidity Between Delinquency, Drug Abuse, Suicide Attempts, Physical and Sexual Abuse, and Self-Mutilation Among Delinquent Hispanic Females

Using data from presentence investigations on 141 Hispanic girls sentenced to probation, this study assessed the prevalence of drug abuse, delinquency, suicide attempts, physical & sexual abuse, & self-mutilation as well as the extent of comorbidity among these problems. Results show very high levels of violent delinquency, marijuana abuse, suicide attempts, & self-mutilation. Comorbidity was also extensive between suicide attempts, self-mutilation, physical & sexual abuse, & between these variables & drug abuse & certain forms of delinquency. (36 refs.)