Black Youth Suicidal Behavior: What We Know and Where We Go from Here

AbstractResearch concerning Black youth suicide and suicidal behavior is limited, yet the rates of these behaviors continue to rise in this population of youth. In children, 5–12 years, Black youth are two times more likely to die by suicide than their White peers, and suicide attempts among Black adolescents have increased by 73%. Understanding the risk factors associated with suicidal behavior in Black youth is imperative to create prevention efforts for Black youth. This chapter will discuss what is known concerning the topic of Black youth suicidal behavior and provide research, practice, and policy recommendations.