Effects of Stress on Suicide Behavior among Adolescents: An Analysis of Online Survey Data on Youth Health Behavior Using Propensity Score Matching

Abstract

Background: This study attempted to assess the effect of stress on suicidal behavior in adolescents. Methods: The 15th (2019) Youth Health Behavior Online Survey was used and divided into two groups according to the level of stress. The homogeneity between groups was confirmed through propensity score matching for covariates. Results: The stress experienced by adolescents was statistically significant both before and after propensity score matching for suicidal behavior. However, before matching, it was confirmed that the degree of influence of stress on suicidal behavior was overestimated. Conclusions: Through propensity score matching, it was confirmed that adolescent stress is a major risk factor for suicidal behavior. Therefore, to prevent suicidal behavior among adolescents, stress management must be prioritized.