Suicidal Behavior in Four Ethnic Groups in The Hague, 2002-2004

This study determined the rates of attempted & completed suicide among ethnic groups in The Hague, The Netherlands during the period 2002-2004. Turkish & Surinamese females aged 15-24 years were at highest risk for attempted suicide. Both groups had significantly higher rates than in same age group of Dutch females. Turkish & Surinamese had lower repeat attempt rates than did Dutch females, aged 15-24. Significantly lower attempt rates were found for Surinamese than for Dutch females, aged 35-54 years. Differences were not explained by socioeconomic living conditions. The ratio of fatal/nonfatal events was 4.5 times higher in males than in females & varied across age, gender, & ethnicity. (24 refs.)