Demographic Factors Associated with Suicidal Ideation among College Students in Kolkata, India

The present study tried to focus on the issue that why some individuals are at high risk for developing suicidal thoughts by examining the various demographic variables. Demographic variables were divided into three categories: Demographic-behavioral variables (e.g., drug use, smoking and drinking), interpersonal and family related demographic variable (peer relationship, family relationship, staying with family, history of suicides in family/friend) and personal demographic variable (academic achievement and parent staying together). Correlation, Regression, and Chi-square test were done. Results indicated smoking, drinking, family relationship, history of suicides in family/friends, parents living together emerged as possible predictors of suicidal ideation. Significant difference between suicidal ideators and non-suicidal ideators found regarding the history of suicides in family/friends, academic achievement, parents staying together, smoking, peer and family relationship. Statistical analysis revealed suicidal ideations among 12.88% of the sample studied (N=29). The results provide insight into the factors that predict suicidal ideation among youths.