Suicidal ideation: Risk Factor- Vulnerability and Protective Factor — Resiliency among Youth of Juvenile Justice System

Suicide is a leading cause of death for adolescents. A number of problem behaviours associated with youth suicide fall into the purview of law enforcement personnel, and they are therefore in a position to detect risk and prevent suicidal behaviours. The purpose of this study was to examine factors that increase or decrease suicide risk among a group of the juvenile justice system at risk for school dropout, a population known to be at increased risk for multiple problem behaviours. Studies of youth who died by suicide provide information to guide prevention efforts, and there is evidence that a number of youth who died by suicide had contact at some point with the legal system. The literature is sparse with regard to suicidal ideation among Indian women with a history of sexual violence as a minor. Using survey data, this study utilized logistic regression to investigate the roles of a risk factor, criminal justice involvement, and protective factors, and ethnic identity in experiencing suicidal ideation. Findings suggest that criminal justice involvement and the interaction of ethnic identity and spiritual well-being are important factors in understanding which Indian may be at a greater risk of experiencing suicidal ideation. Results are discussed relative to prevention and early intervention programs; particularly the importance of understanding adolescent violent behaviours within a context that addresses stress and distress.