Sensation seeking as risk factor for suicidal ideation and suicide attempts in adolescence

Abstract

Background High sensation seeking in adolescence is associated with engagement in risk-taking behaviors, especially substance use. Although depressed adolescents are prone to increased risk-taking, and suicidal behavior can be considered within the spectrum of risk-taking behaviors, the relationships between sensation seeking, depression, and suicidal behavior have not been explored. Methods A self-report questionnaire assessing sensation seeking, depression, substance use problems, and suicidal ideation and suicide attempts was completed by 9th- through 12th-grade students (n=2189) in six New York State high-schools from 2002 through 2004. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine main and interaction effects between sensation seeking and the four clinical variables. Results High sensation seeking was positively associated with depressive symptoms and substance use problems. The main effects of sensation seeking on suicidal ideation and suicide attempts remained significant after controlling for depression and substance use. The association between sensation seeking and suicide attempts was moderated by substance use problems. Limitations The schools were suburban and predominantly white, limiting the generalizability of the results. Other mental disorders with potential implications for sensation seeking and for suicidal behavior, such as bipolar disorders, were not assessed. Conclusions The finding that sensation seeking makes an independent contribution to the risk of suicidal ideation and attempts is consistent with findings in literature on novelty seeking and impulsivity. The associations between sensation seeking, depressive symptoms and suicidal behavior may be compatible with the presence of an underlying temperamental dysregulation. Screening for sensation seeking may contribute to the reduction of adolescent suicide risk.

Childhood sexual abuse and impulsive personality traits: Mixed evidence for moderation by DRD4 genotype

“…Sensation seeking is correlated with a variety of externalizing behaviors and disorders, including alcohol and drug use and sexual risk-taking, as well as suicidality and self-injury (Charnigo et al, 2013; Knorr, Jenkins, & Conner, 2013; Ortin, Lake, Kleinman, & Gould, 2012; Quinn & Harden, 2013). Thus the current results suggest that sensation seeking is a promising candidate for a “missing link” that connects CSA with an array of clinical conditions.…”

Bullying and Suicidal Behavior During Adolescence: A Developmental Perspective

“…They concluded that, while there are inconsistencies and confusing findings given the interrelationship between aggression and impulsivity, the relationship between aggression, impulsivity, and suicidality is well-established. Ortin et al (2012) examined the relationship between sensation seeking in adolescence and suicidality. Sensation seeking was related to both suicidal ideation and suicide attempt, even after controlling for depression and substance use.…”

Predicting Future Suicide Attempts Among Adolescent and Emerging Adult Psychiatric Emergency Patients

“…Adolescence and emerging adulthood are characterized by increases in a number of suicide risk factors such as substance abuse (e.g., Harford, Grant, Yi, & Chen, 2005), depression (e.g., Reinherz, Paradis, Giaconia, Stashwick, & Fitzmaurice, 2003), and sensation seeking and risky behaviors (Ortin, Lake, Kleinman, & Gould, 2012). Additionally, these developmental periods are characterized by significant life transitions, such as graduating high school and entering college or the workforce.…”