Psychosocial Predictors and Correlates of Suicidality in Teenage Latino Males

• Published in: Hispanic journal of behavioral sciences 2005-08, Vol.27 (3), p.319-336
• Main Authors: Locke, Thomas F., Newcomb, Michael D.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Adolescents; Child Abuse; Emotional abuse; Families & family life; Family Influence; Hispanic Americans; Males; Predictor Variables; Prevention; Psychological Patterns; Risk; Risk factors; Self Efficacy; Sexual Abuse; Substance Abuse; Suicide; Suicides & suicide attempts; Teenagers
• ISSN: 0739-9863; 1552-6364
• DOI: 10.1177/0739986305276745

Multiple ecodevelopmental factors were tested as they influence suicidality in a community sample of Latino adolescent males. Risk factors tested included childhood maltreatment, parental alcohol-related problems, and polysubstance problems. Protective factors included general self-efficacy, social conformity, and family bonding. Male participants (N = 349) were recruited from the Los Angeles area. About 80% of the sample reported some suicidal ideation, and 26% reported a history of at least one suicide attempt. The strongest protective factor for suicidality was problem-solving confidence, followed by a good relationship with parents and being law abiding. The strongest risk factor for suicidality was emotional abuse, followed by hard drug use, mother’s alcohol-related problems, and sexual abuse. Broad-based theories, research, treatment, and prevention efforts are critical to implement with this population.