Suicidality in Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong: the role of family and cultural influences

Background Adolescent suicidal ideation has found to predict suicidal behaviors and psychopathology in adulthood. Previous studies focused solely on the medical and environmental risk factors, which were insufficient to give a holistic picture of adolescent suicidality. Objectives To assess the role of affective and cognitive attributes in the identification and prevention of adolescent suicidal ideation. Method A community sample of 511 participants (age 15-19 years) were asked to indicate their suicidality in the 12 months and in their lifetime. Generalized estimating equation regression models were used to examine the effect of psychosocial and socio-environmental correlates in relation to adolescent suicidal ideation. Results The data show that perceived responsibilities for family was the only protective factor, while a coping mechanism by behavioral disengagement, severity of depressive symptoms, a history of deliberate self-harm, chronic physical illness or pain, media reporting of suicide news, and low household income were the risk factors for adolescent suicidal ideation. Conclusions The results suggest that a multilayer effort for preventing adolescent suicide is needed by providing support for children in deprived families; enhancing life skills in the teens; strengthening family relationship; improving mental and health services; and promoting responsible media reporting on suicide.