Suicidal behavior of children: a review with implications for research and practice.

The author reviews the environmental and psychological factors associated with suicidal behavior of children aged 6-12 years; the incidence of such behavior seems to be increasing. Assessment of a child's suicide potential should focus on such issues as depression, family communication patterns, the child's concepts about death, and the state of ego functioning. The author emphasizes the need for more systematic investigations of suicidal behavior among children, more precise methods of interviewing and recognizing potentially suicidal children, and widespread education of the public about this life threatening