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The Association between Hyperactivity and Suicidal Behavior and Attempts among Children Referred from Emergency Departments

Authors :
Oren Shahnovsky
Alan Apter
Shira Barzilay
Source :
European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education, Vol 14, Iss 10, Pp 2616-2627 (2024)
Publication Year :
2024
Publisher :
MDPI AG, 2024.

Abstract

The global prevalence of suicidal behaviors in children is rising, with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) proposed as a contributing factor. This study examines the association between ADHD facets (hyperactivity and inattention) and suicidal behavior and attempts in children. Additionally, it seeks to compare self-reported ADHD symptoms and suicide-related incidents with parental reports. A cohort of 71 children referred from emergency departments due to suicidal thoughts and behaviors completed self- and parental report questionnaires. The results revealed that elevated hyperactivity scores, surpassing the ADHD diagnosis threshold, were significantly associated with increased rates of suicidal behavior. Hyperactivity demonstrated a stronger association with lifetime suicide attempts compared to inattention. Moreover, children’s self-reported ADHD symptoms exhibited a stronger correlation with suicide attempts than parental reports. This study highlights the critical role of hyperactivity in understanding suicidal behaviors among children with ADHD. It underscores the importance of considering hyperactivity-related symptoms in assessment and treatment approaches for suicidal behavior in this population.

Details

Language :
English, Spanish; Castilian
ISSN :
22549625 and 21748144
Volume :
14
Issue :
10
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
European Journal of Investigation in Health, Psychology and Education
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.bfd68d362aa41eea4d7343285038bdf
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3390/ejihpe14100172