Risk and Protective Factors for Suicidal Ideation in African American Women With a History of Sexual Violence as a Minor

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.