Clinical components of suicidal intent in adolescent overdose.

Previous research has found that adolescents' statements about an overdose do not correlate well with their actions. This study examined the Beck Suicide Intent scale, which questions adolescents on their actions surrounding an overdose and on their beliefs as to its seriousness, in 50 adolescents after an overdose. The correlation between actions and belief was only 0.24. A factor analysis of the Beck Suicide Intent scale identified four factors labeled expressed intent, planning, concealment, and communication. It is suggested these factors could help clinicians making qualitative assessments of adolescent overdose.