Abstract
Objective
Research has focused on understanding risk factors associated with suicidal ideation
and self-harm behaviors in older youth, but less is known regarding these behaviors
in preadolescents. We examined characteristics associated with suicidal ideation and
self-harm behavior in youth aged 10–13 years.
Design/Methods
A community sample of 387 youth was enrolled in a prospective study assessing precursors
of risk behaviors. Twenty-three subjects endorsing items regarding suicidal ideation
or self-harm behaviors (Achenbach's Youth Self-Report) (endorsers) were matched with
23 non-endorsers. Groups were compared on problem behaviors, impulsivity, neurocognitive
function, risk behaviors, and other variables.
Results
Endorsers had higher levels of impulsivity, were more likely in borderline/clinical
range on 5 of 8 Youth Self-Report Syndrome scales, and reported more risk taking.
Endorsers and non-endorsers were similar in neurocognitive function. More non-endorsers
were on stimulants, but groups were similar in parental monitoring and parental report
of behavioral/emotional issues, socioeconomic status, and marital status.
Conclusion
In this study, preadolescent endorsers report significantly more problem behaviors
than non-endorsers. However, parental monitoring and parent report of problems were
similar between groups. Given these findings, we suggest that at-risk youth may be
underrecognized at young ages.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 06, 2011
Accepted:
September 22,
2011
Received:
May 25,
2011
Identification
Copyright
© 2012 Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
