Highlights
- •This study explored the prevalence and psychosocial determinants of adolescent suicidal ideation in Jordan.
- •The prevalence of suicidal ideation among Jordanian school adolescents was 11 %.
- •Suicidal ideations were higher among adolescents who were boys, enrolled in public schools, and had a family history of suicide.
- •Suicidal ideations were significantly correlated with lower self-esteem and higher depressive symptoms scores.
- •School adolescents tend to hold negative and stigmatizing attitudes towards suicidal individuals.
Abstract
Background
Suicide is a global health problem with considerable variability across countries
in its prevalence and correlates. The aims of this study were to: (a) explore the
prevalence and psychosocial determinants of adolescent suicidal ideation, and (b)
explore the perceived stigma of suicide among adolescents.
Method
A nationally representative electronic survey was utilized to collect data from school
adolescents. The Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist for studies
reporting prevalence data was used to design the survey. The study collected data
on adolescents' suicidal ideation, depression, self-esteem, stigma of suicide, family
functioning, educational stress, and anxiety levels. A representative sample of 647
Jordanian school adolescents was included.
Results
The prevalence of suicidal ideation among school adolescents was 11%. Suicidal ideation
was significantly higher among respondents who were boys and enrolled in public schools,
had a mental health problem, a family history of suicidal attempt, a lower self-esteem,
and higher depressive symptoms. The majority of school adolescents agreed with the
descriptions of people who take their own lives as being “lost” (70%), “coward” (53%),
“stupid” (51%), and “lonely” (49%).
Conclusion
There is no typical suicide victim, and there are no specific characteristics that
can point out those who are suicidal. Suicide remains a complex phenomenon that is
embedded in its sociocultural context. Collaborative efforts from Jordanian policy
makers, healthcare providers, researchers, and educators are needed to develop culturally
appropriate screening and prevention approaches to address suicide among adolescents.
Nurses have a significant role in helping adolescents experiencing suicidal ideation
and their families restore, maintain, and/or promote their mental health and wellbeing.
Keywords
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Article Info
Publication History
Published online: April 13, 2022
Accepted:
April 9,
2022
Received in revised form:
April 5,
2022
Received:
September 29,
2021
Identification
Copyright
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