Relationship Between Religious Coping and Suicidal Behaviours Among African American Adolescents

This study investigated whether hopelessness & depression were risk factors for suicidal thoughts & behaviours in 212 African American adolescents & looked at whether religious participation & religious coping protected them from suicidality. Multiple & logistic regression analyses found hopelessness & depression were risk factors. Religious coping style was significantly related to suicidal behaviours. Self-directed coping was related to increased hopelessness, depression, & suicide attempts. Gender differences were noted. (65 refs.)