Development of Suicide Ideation and Attempts Among LGBTQ Youth of Color: An Integrative Data Analysis

• In Event: Shaping Inclusive Futures: Multicultural Perspectives on Education and Well-Being

Abstract

This study utilized integrative data analysis (IDA) to examine developmental trends in suicide thoughts and behaviors among LGBTQ youth of color (YOC). Individual-level data were harmonized across 18 prevention trials (N=1,615) to compare intersectional groups by gender identity, sexual orientation, and race/ethnicity. Findings revealed peak suicide attempt rates at age 13 for transgender youth; higher attempts for females and more ideation for males; and distinct patterns among Asian, Black, and Multiracial LGBTQ-YOC. The study elucidates developmental variations in suicide risk among LGBTQ-YOC subgroups. Findings can inform targeted, culturally informed prevention programs and highlight the utility of IDA for advancing health equity research on multiply marginalized populations.

Authors

• Dorothy L. Espelage, University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill

• Alberto Valido Delgado, University of Missouri

• George W. Howe, The George Washington University

• Karen M. Abram, Northwestern University

• Carlos Gallo, Northwestern University

• C Hendricks Brown, Northwestern University