Suicide in Children: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Objectives. To provide a review of studies on suicide in children aged 14 years and younger. Method. Articles were identified through a systematic search of Scopus, MEDLINE and PsychINFO. Key words were "children, suicide, psychological autopsy and case-study". Additional articles were identified through manual search of reference lists and discussion with colleagues. Results. Fifteen published articles were identified, eight psychological autopsy studies (PA) and seven retrospective case-study series. Conclusion. Suicide incidence and gender asymmetry increases with age. Hanging is the most frequent method. Lower rates of psychopathology are evident among child suicides compared to adolescents. Previous suicide attempts were an important risk factor. Children were less likely to consume alcohol prior to suicide. Parent-child conflicts were the most common precipitant.