Suicide attempts among sexual-minority male youth

J Clin Child Adolesc Psychol. 2003 Dec;32(4):509-22. doi: 10.1207/S15374424JCCP3204_3.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to provide data addressing Diamond's (this issue) 4 problem areas in sexual orientation research by comparing gay, bisexual, and questioning male youth who report attempting suicide with those who do not. Secondary analyses were conducted with 2 datasets, 1 with a gay support group (n = 51) and the other with online youth (n = 681). Reported suicide attempts ranged from 39% among support-group youth, to 25% among Internet gay support group youth, to 9% among Internet non-support group youth. Sexual orientation, behavior, and identity did not predict suicidal attempt status, but suicide attempters experienced higher levels of both generic life stressors (low self-esteem, substance use, victimization) and gay-related stressors, particularly those directly related to visible (femininity) and behavioral (gay sex) aspects of their sexual identity. Support-group attendance was related to higher levels of suicidality and life stressors, as well as certain resiliency factors. Results suggest that there exists a minority of sexual-minority youth who are at risk but that it would be inappropriate to characterize the entire population as such.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Crime Victims
  • Health Surveys
  • Homosexuality, Male / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Self Concept
  • Social Support*
  • Stress, Psychological*
  • Substance-Related Disorders
  • Suicide, Attempted*