Citation

Ullman SE. Aggress. Violent Behav. 2004; 9(4): 331-351.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article reviews empirical studies examining the relationship of sexual victimization to women's suicidal behavior. Studies examining the association of sexual assault in childhood and/or adulthood in relation to suicidal ideation, planning of suicide, and suicide attempts are reviewed. Additional correlates of suicidal behavior in sexually victimized women are also reviewed. It is argued that the disproportionate sexual victimization of girls and women may give rise to the greater likelihood of suicide attempts, through a variety of pathways, including psychiatric sequelae such as depression and PTSD, and associated psychosocial factors such as life events, problematic substance use/abuse, and risky lifestyles and behaviors (e.g., association with delinquent peers). An agenda for future research is proposed focusing on the role of sexual assault in the context of other factors to explain the disproportionate rates of suicidal behavior in women.