PSYCHOLOGICAL AND SOCIAL-INDICATORS OF SUICIDE IDEATION AND SUICIDE ATTEMPTS IN ZUNI ADOLESCENTS

Suicide behavior is a significant problem for many American Indian populations, often more so than in the general Population, but little tribal-specific data is available. In this study, baseline data on the correlates of suicide ideation and the social and psychological differences between suicide attempters and nonattempters were collected on a sample of 84 Zuni adolescents. Results show significant correlations between a measure of suicide ideation and past suicide attempt behavior, drug use, depression, hopelessness, stress, psychological symptomatology, social support, liking for school, and interpersonal communication. Significant differences between the 30% of the students who reported having previously attempted suicide and the nonattempters were also found on these measures. Areas for education and prevention efforts are suggested.