Assessment of suicidal behavior in adolescence

Several factors should be taken into consideration in assessing suicidal risk in adolescence. These factors are: 1. The presence of a psychiatric disorder, especially major depression. 2. Various indices of psychopathology, such as previous suicide attempts. 3. Presence of stressful factors. 4. Feelings of hopelessness. In evaluating Greek youngsters who attempted suicide, two factors were identified as the major risk factors leading to suicidal behavior. The first factor was the restriction of the youngster's personal freedom, imposed by the parents, and the second one was the presence of a psychiatric disorder, especially dysthymic disorder. In investigating all completed suicides by Greek individuals from 10 to 19 years of age, from 1980 through 1987, we found that risk factors were the presence of a psychiatric disorder, strained relationships between the young victims and their parents, and failed love affairs. It was shown that cultural factors and customs have an effect on suicidal risk and should be taken into consideration in assessing the suicidal behavior of Greek adolescents.