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
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