Citation

Pinhey TK, Millman SR. Am. J. Public Health 2004; 94(7): 1204-1206.

Affiliation

Department of Sociology, University of Hawaii at Hilo, 96720-4091, USA. pinhey@hawaii.edu

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, American Public Health Association)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

15226144

PMCID

PMC1448422

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: We examined the effects of same-sex orientation on suicide risks for Guam's Asian/Pacific Islander adolescents. METHODS: We used a probability sample and logistic regression analysis to identify suicide risk factors. RESULTS: Same-sex orientation was associated with a greater risk of suicide attempt, especially for boys. Adolescents who reported suffering physical abuse in the context of a romantic relationship, engaging in binge drinking, and experiencing feelings of hopelessness were at greater risk for suicidal ideation and attempts. Race/ethnicity was associated with suicide risk for both boys and girls, and patterns suggest that membership in the same racial/ethnic group decreased suicide risk for girls and increased risk of suicide for boys. CONCLUSIONS: Gay, lesbian, and bisexual Asian/Pacific Islander adolescents in Guam deserve intervention and counseling programs to reduce suicide risk.