Do Irish adolescents think that suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem? Taking a look at suicidal ideation among Irish adolescents

Abstract

The current, escalating number of deaths by suicide in contemporary Ireland has sparked cause for grave concern among existing government bodies and concerned independent groups of our time (Reach Out, 2005). We, as Irish citizens, need not only be aware of the occurrence of the present situation, we also need knowledge behind the psychological thought process that may be leading to suicide among the youth of today. The aim of the present study was to examine suicidal ideation, in an adolescent sample, in relation to hopelessness, bullying, psychological well-being, happiness, social support, personality, trust in people and emotional and social loneliness. A survey of 162 respondents, aged between 15 and 19 years, examined the relationship between the aforementioned study variables and respondents classified into either self-reported suicidal ideation or non-suicidal ideation groups. Statistically significant results were calculated, using Independent Samples t-test, and interpreted in light of previous literature in this area, and suggestions for prevention and intervention programmes were illustrated.