Suicide and children

It is shocking to realize that children do commit suicide. For those under the age of 14, suicide is still relatively rare. But in the 14–24 age group, the suicide rate has almost doubled during the 1970s and almost tripled since the 1950s. Evidence suggests that youngsters who do not learn to express feelings verbally act them out in self-destructive behavior. Behaviors that provoke parents, teachers, and peers could indicate an unconscious desire for self-destruction. The reason this desire is overpowering in some but not in others seems to stem from parental attitudes toward the children. If children are denied affection and approval, thay have difficulties developing sufficient ego strength to solve emotional problems. Burdened with negative self-images, children may never learn to form personal relationships or to develop coping mechanisms. They end up feeling worthless and finding no reason to live. If suicide is a cry for help in the young, help must consist of teaching coping mechanisms and relationship skills. Most of all, children with suicidal tendencies need to be convinced of their own worth, which they must learn through the recognition by others of their legitimate needs and rights. A positive self-image and a strong sense of identity are the most effective antidotes to self-destruction.