SCHOOL-BASED SUICIDE-PREVENTION PROGRAMS - ARE THEY EFFECTIVE

The efficacy of adolescent suicide prevention programs in school setti ngs has recently been criticized, especially for students who are at-r isk for suicidal behavior. The theoretical orientation, targeted popul ations, goals, and methods for examining efficacy of school-based prog rams are reviewed. Results showed that most programs are of short dura tion, follow a stress-related model, and fail to assess actual suicida l behaviors. The methodology for measuring efficacy for most programs also was flawed, using acquisition, knowledge, or attitude changes as a measure of effectiveness, rather than a reduction in suicidal behavi or. Thus, the effectiveness of these school-based prevention programs in reducing actual adolescent suicidal behavior is seriously questione d. The mixed results reported in this review and their implications fo r school psychologists, mental health professionals, and students are discussed. Suggestions and recommendations are made for current practi ce and future research.