JEAN-MARIE FIRDION

RISK OF SUICIDE IN YOUNGSTERS WITH UNCONVENTIONAL SEXUAL ORIENTATION

 

Making a synthesis from a recent report, the author presents the hypothesis of an association between suicide attempt, or suicide, among youths and homosexual or bisexual orientation. The consonant findings of North-American epidemiological works, published last years, emphasize the fact that homosexuality, per se, is not a direct causal factor in suicidality among youths. Nonetheless, homosexual or bisexual orientation are factors that increase the risk of suicidal behaviors (with a significant effect). This phenomenon could be related to homophobia and heterosexism, still present in our societies. These conclusions have a strong effect on prevention programs and policies directed to youths. The American research results underscore the need for collecting and analyzing such data in France.

Key words
Suicide, Homosexuality, Homophobia, Epidemiology.