@article{ref1,
title="Discrimination experiences of orphans and left-behind children in China as predictors of suicidal thoughts and behaviors",
journal="Crisis",
year="2023",
author="Guo, Hui-Bing and Li, Shi-Ying",
volume="ePub",
number="ePub",
pages="ePub-ePub",
abstract="BACKGROUND: Suicide has been recognized as a serious problem in orphans and left-behind children. It is important to examine the differences in the factors affecting suicidal thoughts and behaviors between the two groups. Aims: To compare the lifetime rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors between orphans, left-behind children, and other children, and to assess the impact of discrimination experiences and the mediating role of self-esteem. <br><br>METHODS: A total of 2,413 children from middle schools in China completed standardized anonymous questionnaires that assessed child type, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, discrimination experiences, and self-esteem. Data analysis employed χ(2) test, Pearson correlation test, and structural equation modeling (SEM). <br><br>RESULTS: Left-behind children had a significantly higher lifetime rates of suicidal ideation than orphans and other children (χ(2) = 9.35, p <.05). Discrimination experiences significantly and positively predicted suicidal thoughts and behaviors through the mediating effect of self-esteem in orphaned children, and there was no self-esteem mediating effect found for left-behind children. Discrimination experiences had a greater impact on suicidal thoughts and behaviors for orphans than for left-behind children. Limitations: Cross-sectional studies based on self-report might lead to biased results and mean that causality cannot be inferred. <br><br>CONCLUSIONS: Attention should be paid to suicidal thoughts and behaviors among vulnerable groups, especially left-behind children. Reducing discrimination and improving orphans' self-esteem can be considered as targets of prevention and intervention for suicidal thoughts and behaviors.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0227-5910",
doi="10.1027/0227-5910/a000903",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1027/0227-5910/a000903"
}