Internalized and Externalized Anger in Adolescent Suicide Attempters

This study evaluated mode of anger expression in 104 adolescent suicide attempters & 323 high school students. The suicide attempters also completed measures of depression & hopelessness. Results indicated suicidal adolescents displayed an increased likelihood of experiencing anger, reported significantly higher levels of both internalized & externalized anger, & displayed reduced tendencies for impulse control. Hierarchical multiple regression analyses found the general inclination to experience anger was most closely related to externalized anger & poor impulse control. Among the attempters, depression & hopelessness were related to internalized but not externalized anger. (64 refs.)