School-Based Identity Discrimination and Victimization: Examining Suicidal Thoughts Among Black Youth

Objective Suicide rates among Black youth have historically been low; however, in recent years, the rates have significantly increased while rates for other groups have remained steady or decreased. Grounded in intersectional minority stress, this cross-sectional study examined associations of school-based victimization and suicidal thoughts in Black youth. Method Data from the 2020-2021 cycle of the California Healthy Kids Survey (CHKS) were utilized in this cross-sectional study and included 3,809 Black middle and high school students who have a school schedule of hybrid and in-person learning. All demographic data, and data for school-based victimization and suicidal thoughts were self-reported. Logistic regression models were employed to examine the association between school-based victimization and suicidal thoughts. Results Findings indicated that Black youth who were threatened or injured on school property and victimized because of their race had elevated odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts. Black sexual and/or gender minority youth had higher odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts. Multivariable logistic regression indicated that Black youth who were threatened or injured on school property had significantly higher odds of experiencing suicidal thoughts than those who were not. Racial bullying and depressive symptoms were significantly associated with experiencing suicidal thoughts. Optimism was found to have an inverse association with suicidal thoughts in addition to school safety significantly mitigating those odds. Conclusion Findings underscore the role of school-based violence increasing the risk of suicide in Black youth. Diversity & Inclusion Statement One or more of the authors of this paper self-identifies as a member of one or more historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science. One or more of the authors of this paper self-identifies as a member of one or more historically underrepresented sexual and/or gender groups in science. We actively worked to promote inclusion of historically underrepresented racial and/or ethnic groups in science in our author group.