Psychosocial Correlates of Suicidal Ideation in Middle-School Students

Kim, Sung Wan; Kim, Seon Young; Yang, Su Jin; Kim, Jae Min; Shin, Il Seon; Jeong, Seol; Yoo, Joon An; Bae, Kyung Yeol; Yoon, Jin Sang

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
To examine the prevalence and psychosocial correlates of current suicidal ideation in middle-school students.
METHODS
This school-based cross-sectional study enrolled 452 middle-school students in grade 7. Current suicidal ideation was defined as suicidal thoughts and a desire to be dead within two weeks. Sociodemographic variables, including environmental stressors, were collected to identify factors associated with current suicidal ideation. The students were asked to complete the Beck Depression Inventory, the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Korean Version of the Children of Alcoholics Screening Test, the Problem-Oriented Screening Instrument for Teenagers, and various scales measuring anger level and ability to control anger.
RESULTS
Current suicidal ideation was reported by 31.3% of the students. In a multivariate logistic regression analysis, a previous suicide attempt, depression, parents with alcohol problems, family trouble, and anger level were independently associated with current suicidal ideation. The experiences of running away, domestic violence, being bullied, alcohol abuse, hyperactivity, and emotional problems were significantly more frequent in students with suicidal ideation, but they were not significantly associated with suicidal ideation in the multivariate analysis.
CONCLUSION
This study suggests that a previous suicide attempt is a risk factor for current suicidal ideation. Appropriate management of depression and anger in middle-school students and interventions for family troubles and parental alcohol problems are needed to reduce suicidal ideation in middle-school students.