Citation

Macgowan MJ. Res. Soc. Work Pract. 2004; 14(3): 147-162.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2004, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1049731503257889

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

This article systematically reviews evidence for treatment of adolescent suicidality. In all, 10 empirical studies intended to reduce suicidal behaviors (e.g., suicide attempts) or suicidal ideation were reviewed. Each study's intervention was described and evaluated using two sets of independent criteria to assess the degree to which it was successful in reducing suicidality and the level of its empirical support (well established or probably efficacious). Most of the interventions were successful in reducing suicidality. However, no treatment met the criteria of well established and only two were probably efficacious. Most studies had important methodological limitations. Features of the promising interventions were summarized and methodological limitations highlighted. The number of interventions has increased in the past 10 years, but the research evidence remains weak. Recommendations are offered to strengthen the research, and the role of social workers in using these findings and advancing the research is discussed.

Language: en

Keywords

Suicide; Adolescents; Intervention; Empirically supported therapies