Factors Related to Sex Differences in Suicidal Behavior among Black Youth

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Abstract
A review of suicidal behavior among Black youth, IS to 24 years of age, indicates significant differences between males and females in rates and patterns of attempted and completed suicide. The heuristic value of three major theories of suicide is discussed in terms of Black youth suicidal patterns. Methodological issues of the validity and reliability of suicide statistics for Black youth are also examined. Socioculturalfactors contributing to sex differences in Black youth suicide are analyzed, as well asfamily, school, peer, and community experiences that reinforce thesefactors. Young Black males appear to be more vulnerable than young Black females to suicide because of their differential exposure to multiple risk factors in all of these domains. Implications for future research on this neglected topic are discussed and proposals are offered to enable practitioners to develop more effective strategies of prevention and early intervention in order to reduce the rates of Black youth suicide.

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