Understanding and Assessing Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in School-Age Children: A Longitudinal Approach
2024 Early Career Research Grant
Amount Awarded: $139,014
Focus Area: Psychosocial

Laura Hennefield, Ph.D.
Washington University in St. Louis
Inside the Research
Children as young as preschool-age can experience suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STBs). These early-onset STBs can continue into adolescence and are linked to other mental health struggles. However, little is known about how to identify children at risk. This project uses data collected via three methods (brief caregiver-report screener and caregiver and child clinical interviews) at two timepoints (ages four to seven and six to nine years). Key questions being examined relate to how, who, and when to assess early-onset STBs.