Suicidal Behavior

Although all suicides are distress-ing, there is something about a youth’s suicide that is particu-larly disturbing. Youths are seen as full of promise and potential, and an unnec-essary death is perceived as an especial-ly tragic waste. Furthermore, because children and adolescents need care from adults, a child’s suicide creates a spe-cial guilt and anguish among those who provided that care. While many of the principles and approaches toward sui-cidal youth are similar to working with suicidal adults, there are also some key differences. This article will highlight the main differences between adolescent and adult suicidal behavior. 1. Describe how the frequency of suicidal ideation in adolescents compares to adults. 2. Describe key differences in the as-sessment of suicidality in adoles-cents and adults. 3. Discuss how the legal status of minority affects the treatment of a suicidal child or adolescent