Risk and Protective Factors linked to Suicidal Behaviour in Adolescents: A Review of the Literature

Abstract

Suicidal behavior among adolescents is serious and prevalent problems in almost every country that warrant considerable attention. While a variety of factors have been linked to suicidal behavior, only few studies have examined most commonly associated factors among adolescents population. As suicide is preventable therefore it is important to recognize the strongest and most consistently reported risk and protective factors of adolescents' suicidal behavior in forming effective intervention policy. This paper will provide an overview of adolescents' suicidal behaviour as it relates to parents, teachers, and counselors, detailing risk and protective factors, and opportunities for prevention and treatment.