A study examined the role of depression, self-esteem, problem-solving, assertiveness, social support, and some socioeconomic factors on suicidal behaviors in adolescents (Eskin et al., 2007). This study has limitations however because the sample was only from one small city located in the southwestern part of Turkey, this potential sampling bias makes it unclear whether these findings would apply to Turkey as a whole. In fact, they report that their previous studies, which drew from the population in Istanbul, a much larger city in Turkey, had higher percentages of suicidal behavior. Eskin et al. (2007) suggest this is because suicidal behavior is less common in smaller traditional communities (small city in Eskin et al. (2007)) than large metropolitan areas (Istanbul).
Contributing Factors: Eskin et al. (2007) found that depression and low self-esteem were the most consistent predictors of suicidal thoughts in children from ages 13-18. This finding suggests that efforts to reduce depression and increase self-esteem may decrease suicide and suicidal ideation in Turkish youth (Eskin et al., 2007). In terms of gender, however, it seems that boys attempt suicide as a result of unwanted events such as academic failure or parental separation, whereas girls attempt suicide as a result of depression and low self-esteem (Eskin et al., 2007).
Advice for cross-cultural professionals to prevent/treat suicidal behaviors in Turkey:
- Enhance self-esteem.
- Focus on children with troubled family lives.
- Focus on children, specifically boys, with low academic performance.
- Attend to students exhibiting depressive symptoms early.
- Inefficient problem-solving skills result in vulnerability to suicidal behavior during adolescence and adulthood (Eskin et al., 2007). It would, therefore, be helpful for parents and mental health professionals to encourage the development of these skills.