Family Conflicts, Anxiety and Depressive Symptoms, and Suicidal Ideation of Chinese Adolescents in Hong Kong

The present study examined the relationship between parent-adolescent conflict and adolescent suicidal ideation in Hong Kong, China. Depression and anxiety were investigated as possible mediators of this relationship. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, with 338 valid self-administered questionnaires completed by adolescents. The results indicated that parent-adolescent conflict is significantly associated with suicidal ideation among adolescents in Hong Kong. This effect was mediated by those adolescents who suffered from depression and anxiety. To decrease Chinese adolescent suicidal ideation resulting from parent-adolescent conflict and depression, prevention intervention is suggested, such as parenting programmes and more help for adolescents who have symptoms of depression.

Automated summary

The present study found that parent-adolescent conflict is significantly associated with adolescent suicidal ideation in Hong Kong, China, and this relationship is mediated by depression and anxiety. Prevention interventions such as parenting programmes and extra support for adolescents with symptoms of depression are recommended to reduce Chinese adolescent suicidal ideation caused by parent-adolescent conflict and depression.