Environmental Factors, Locus of Control, and Adolescent Suicide Risk

This exploratory study seeks to better understand possible relationships between environmental factors, locus of control, & suicide risk among adolescents. The data derive from in-school surveys of Grade 8 students conducted in 1998 & 1999 in Arizona, California, Nevada, & Wyoming. Results revealed higher levels of suicide risk were associated with a more external locus of control orientation. Relationships between suicide risk & several environmental factors & preferences also were found. Potential links between locus of control, environment, & suicide risk are discussed, as are implications for intervention efforts & future research. (34 refs.)