Psychosocial drivers of adolescent suicide attempts in Iran: a phenomenological study of risk factors and lived experiences

Abstract

Suicidal behaviors in adolescents are more complicated than in other age groups. This study investigated the factors associated with suicide attempts in adolescents in western Iran. This study, using a qualitative phenomenological approach, examined 22 Kermanshah adolescents who had a history of suicide attempts. Participants were selected intentionally and semi-structured interviews collected data. The data were analyzed according to Colaizzi's seven-step method. The main themes included social factors and individual factors related to suicide attempts. The sub-themes of family factors, peer influence, economic problems, communication, and academic problems were social factors. Also, personal factors included subthemes of psychological factors and physical and behavioral problems. These findings highlight the importance of designing preventive programs that address multiple levels of risk. Targeted suicide prevention programs are recommended to begin in schools, not only to address students' academic and social challenges but also to involve families and communities in creating supportive environments.