Technical Assistance Partnership for Child and Family Mental Health

Technical Assistance Partnership for Child and Family Mental Health

Special Topics Column

July 2004

Preventing Tragedy: Bringing an End to Youth SuicidePreventing Tragedy: Bringing an End to Youth Suicide

By Mike Friedman

Death can be an uncomfortable subject, but it is important that youth feel comfortable discussing any concerns they may have, especially when it comes to suicide. This article supplies a knowledge base. It introduces populations that are at risk and reasons why young people are turning to suicide. The article communicates some of the risk factors that may influence youth decision-making and some of the warning signs that may indicate that an adolescent is contemplating suicide. Further, it suggests next steps, how to talk to young people about suicide, and how to help yourself if you are contemplating taking your own life.

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May 2004

Female Delinquency: An Emerging Challenge in AmericaFemale Delinquency: An Emerging Challenge in America

By Melissa Bristow

When the issue of juvenile delinquency and youth crime within the United States is discussed in any context, the focus is almost always on adolescent boys. This shouldn't be surprising considering girls commit a smaller number of offenses than boys. In fact, girls make up only one out of every four juvenile offenders (OJJDP, 1998a). Despite this difference, adolescent girls' involvement in the juvenile justice system has accelerated rapidly in recent years, and girls have been identified as the fastest growing segment within the juvenile justice system (Acoca, 1999; American Bar Association and the National Bar Association, 2001; OJJDP, 1998a, 1998b; Veysey, 2003).

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March 2004

Parents with Depression and Child OutcomesParents with Depression and Child Outcomes:
How Parents’ Depression Affects Children

By Rachel Freed

When one member of a family is stricken with depression, the effects are profound. Depression permeates family life, striking deep into family bonds and escalating tension and stress. Children growing up in the context of this challenging family environment are at risk for a number of negative outcomes. This article provides information on the effects of parental depression. It covers the research in this area and provides up-to-date information and resources on what families and providers can do to help children of parents with depression.

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February 2004

Bullying--A Crisis in America Bullying—A Crisis in America

By Alice Davidson

Bullying has become an increasingly critical national issue as research has revealed that this form of youth violence interferes with student learning and creates a culture of fear and disrespect.

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