ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to provide the reader with a discussion of the “signatures” or causes of adolescent suicide. The chapter begins with a discussion of the developmental problems which occur during childhood and quite often, set the stage for an adolescent suicide. The second section of the chapter identifies situational signatures (e.g., peer relationships) common to adolescents. Events that trigger an adolescent suicide will be discussed in the third section. Also, behavioral indicators and case studies are presented.
The reader should note that no single signature of adolescent suicide can predict an attempt or completion of the act of suicide. The important point is for the concerned helper, parent, or peer to become aware of the accumulation of warning signs that put adolescents at risk.
