Risk and Protective Factors for Suicidal Ideation in African American Women With a History of Sexual Violence as a Minor
Published online on February 29, 2016
Abstract
Compared with other ethnic groups, African Americans have the highest rate of childhood victimization. The literature is sparse with regard to suicidal ideation among African American women with a history of sexual violence as a minor. Using survey data, this study utilized logistic regression to investigate the roles of a risk factor, criminal justice involvement, and protective factors, ethnic identity, and spiritual well-being, in experiencing suicidal ideation. Findings suggest that criminal justice involvement and the interaction of ethnic identity and spiritual well-being are important factors in understanding which African American women may be at a greater risk of experiencing suicidal ideation.