Suicidal Behavior Among Latina College Students

Abstract

Latina college students are one of the fastest-growing segments of the college student population. Although there is evidence suggesting Latina high school students are at increased risk of engaging in suicidal behavior, it is unclear whether this risk continues in college. Over the course of 3 years, 554 Latina college students, the majority of whom were Dominican American or Puerto Rican, completed a series of self-report questionnaires assessing suicidal behavior, depression, hopelessness, loneliness, social problem solving, ethnic identity, and delinquent behavior. Twenty percent of Latinas reported current suicidal ideation and 15% reported a past suicide attempt. Multivariate regression analyses showed depression, loneliness, a less positive social problem-solving orientation, hopelessness, and delinquency, but not ethnic identification, were significant predictors of suicidality among Latina college students. Results are discussed as they pertain to prevention and intervention with distressed and suicidal Latina college students.