Understanding Gender Differences in Suicidal Behavior Among Teens
Author Information
Author(s): Kaess Michael, Parzer Peter, Haffner Johann, Steen Rainer, Roos Jeanette, Klett Martin, Brunner Romuald, Resch Franz
Primary Institution: University of Heidelberg
Hypothesis
Gender differences in non-fatal suicidal behaviour among adolescents could mainly be explained by the gender differences in emotional and behavioural problems.
Conclusion
The study found that gender differences in non-fatal suicidal behaviour among adolescents are largely explained by differences in emotional and behavioural problems.
Supporting Evidence
- 19.8% of female students reported serious suicidal thoughts.
- 10.8% of females had attempted suicide at least once.
- 9.3% of male students reported suicidal thoughts.
- 4.9% of males had attempted suicide.
Takeaway
Girls are more likely to think about and attempt suicide than boys, and this is linked to them having more emotional problems.
Methodology
A cross-sectional design was used to assess suicidal behaviour and emotional and behavioural problems in a representative sample of ninth-grade students using self-report questionnaires.
Potential Biases
Self-report bias may affect the accuracy of reported suicidal behaviour, particularly influenced by current mood.
Limitations
The cross-sectional design limits the ability to determine causality between emotional and behavioural problems and suicidal behaviour.
Participant Demographics
The sample consisted of 5,512 ninth-grade students with a mean age of 14.8 years, 49.8% of whom were female.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0004
Confidence Interval
95% CI 8.5 to 10.9
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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