Peer Victimization, Depression, and Suicidality in Adolescents

The association of specific types of adolescent peer victimization with depression, suicide ideation, & suicide attempts was examined. A self-report survey was completed by 2,342 high school students. Regression analyses indicated that frequent exposure to all types of peer victimization was related to a high risk for depression, ideation, & attempts compared to students not victimized. Infrequent victimization was also related to increased risk, particularly among females. The more types of victimization the higher the risk for depression & suicidality among both genders. (65 refs.)