Association between multicultural adolescents and suicidality in South Korea: Findings from a population-based cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Given the increasing global trend of migration, there is a need for research on the mental health of multicultural adolescents. This study aimed to explore the association between being a multicultural adolescent and experiencing suicidality by considering diverse family characteristics.

Methods: This study used 2014-2022 data of adolescents aged between 12 and 18 from the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey. Multiculturality was defined as one or both parents being foreign-born. Suicidality referred to suicidal ideation, plans, or attempts in a one-year period, with any of these three elements being considered. We conducted multivariable logistic regression, supplemented by further stratified analyses based on defined categories to enable a more detailed investigation. Adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

Results: Among the 487,044 individuals in the study population, 8,752 (1.7%) had at least one foreign-born parent (4,238 males and 4,514 females). Compared to non-multicultural adolescents, multicultural adolescents exhibited a significantly higher likelihood of suicidality among both males (OR: 1.29, CI: 1.15-1.46) and females (OR: 1.18, CI: 1.07-1.30). Increased likelihood of suicidality was also observed among adolescents with foreign-born fathers, with the highest likelihood among adolescents with a single foreign-born father.

Conclusion: In South Korea, multicultural adolescents are more prone to experiencing suicidality than non-multicultural adolescents. Therefore, it is crucial to address suicide risk within this vulnerable population and implement interventions for multicultural families.