Violent victimization and perpetration as distinct risk factors for adolescent suicide attempts

This study examined associations among violent victimization, perpetration, and suicide attempts in youth reporting suicide ideation, within an ideation-to-action framework of suicide. Data on 821 youth (Mage = 16.20, SD = 1.66) were drawn from the National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent to Adult Health, with information regarding violent victimization and perpetration, history of suicide ideation and attempts, non-violent delinquency, depressive symptoms, and substance use. Hierarchical regression analyses indicated that greater experiences of violent victimization and the interaction of violence perpetration by victimization were associated with greater frequency of suicide attempts. Consistent with an ideation-to-action framework, results indicate that violent experiences (victimization or perpetration) may increase the capability for suicide.