Discrimination Experiences of Orphans and Left-Behind Children in China as Predictors of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors.
Crisis
; 44(6): 518-524, 2023 Nov.
Article
em En
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-37051836
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.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 χ2 test, Pearson correlation test, and structural equation modeling (SEM).Results:
Left-behind children had a significantly higher lifetime rates of suicidal ideation than orphans and other children (χ2 = 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.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.Palavras-chave
Texto completo:
1
Coleções:
01-internacional
Base de dados:
MEDLINE
Assunto principal:
Suicídio
/
Crianças Órfãs
Tipo de estudo:
Observational_studies
/
Prognostic_studies
/
Risk_factors_studies
Limite:
Child
/
Humans
País/Região como assunto:
Asia
Idioma:
En
Revista:
Crisis
Ano de publicação:
2023
Tipo de documento:
Article