Emotion Regulation in Elementary School-Aged Children with a Maternal History of Suicidal Behavior: A Pilot Study

Parental history of suicidal behavior is associated with an increased risk of early onset suicidal behavior in their offspring. The objective of this pilot study was to compare clinical characteristics, temperament, and emotion regulation in children, aged 6–9 years, with (PH+) and without (PH−) a maternal history of suicidal behavior to determine which factors could be markers of early vulnerability. At baseline, PH+ children, compared to PH− children, demonstrated more difficulties with temperament, emotion regulation, and experienced more life events in the year prior to their baseline appointment. At study follow-ups, however, no differences were found between PH+ and PH− children. Results suggest there are some signals of early vulnerability present in children with a maternal history of suicidal behavior and recruitment/retention of this group of youth is feasible.