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Adolescent crisis and suicidal behavior: Dynamics and treatment

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Abstract

Suicide among adolescents is increasing. Three interacting factors—the crisis of adolescent development, family dysfunctioning, and social factors—create vulnerability to feelings of rejection and worthlessness among suicidal adolescents. Long-term family problems that are not openly acknowledged but for which the adolescent feels responsible are particularly relevant. The authors recommend a multiple approach to assessment and treatment in which crisis intervention is employed initially; and individual treatment for the adolescent and family therapy are utilized concurrently on a long-term basis.

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Sands, R.G., Dixon, S.L. Adolescent crisis and suicidal behavior: Dynamics and treatment. Child Adolesc Soc Work J 3, 109–122 (1986). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00757218

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