Citation

Richardson AS, Bergen HA, Martin G, Roeger L, Allison S. Arch. Suicide Res. 2005; 9(2): 163-176.

Affiliation

Child and Adolescent Psychiastry, the University of Queensland, Mental Health Centre, K floor, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2005, International Academy of Suicide Research, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13811110590904016

PMID

16020160

Abstract

This study investigated perceived academic performance and self-reported suicidal behavior in adolescents (n = 2,596), mean age 13 years, from 27 South Australian high schools. Groups perceiving their academic performance as failing, below average, average and above average were significantly different on measures of self-esteem, locus of control, depressive symptoms, suicidal thoughts, plans, threats, deliberate self-injury, and suicide attempts. Multivariate logistic regression analyses revealed that failing academic performance (compared to above average) is associated with a five-fold increased likelihood of a suicide attempt, controlling for self-esteem, locus of control and depressive symptoms. Teachers should note that a student presenting with low self-esteem, depressed mood and perceptions of failure may be at increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and need referral for clinical assessment.