ABSTRACT
This study examined the hypothesis that among one group of high-risk youth--potential high school dropouts--key psychosocial factors would distinguish adolescents endorsing high suicide ideation from those who do not. Survey data compared high-risk youth with high suicide ideation (n = 43) with randomly selected samples of high-risk (n = 43) and "typical" youth (n = 42) without high suicide ideation. Repeat sampling of comparison groups verified results. Compared to high-risk and typical youth without suicide ideation, high-risk youth with high suicide ideation reported more psychosocial distress, problems with drug involvement, and disrupted family relations. They also described more unmet school goals and perceived a greater likelihood of dropping out of school. Discriminant analysis revealed that depression and low self-esteem were most effective in distinguishing between high-risk youth with and without high suicide ideation; family strain, anger, stress, and drug involvement also were differentiating factors. Implications for school-based screening and prevention programs are discussed within the context of the findings.
Subject(s)
Psychology, Adolescent , Suicide/psychology , Adolescent , Depression/psychology , Discriminant Analysis , Female , Humans , Male , Risk Assessment , Sampling Studies , Self Concept , Stress, Psychological/psychology , Student Dropouts/psychology , Substance-Related Disorders , Suicide PreventionABSTRACT
This paper synthesizes literature related to medication-taking behaviors of the elderly population and examines factors related to medication compliance problems. A review and critique of the literature focused on interventions and strategies for improving medication compliance is also presented. This analysis provides direction for developing assessment guides, intervention strategies, and educational materials which may be helpful for health providers in assisting patients and families to manage medication regimens. The paper also includes a comprehensive medication assessment guide and a resource list of educational materials for family care-givers and health providers. The last section of the paper describes the clinical testing study of the medication assessment guide.
