Factors Influencing Suicide Behaviours in Immigrant and Ethno-Cultural Minority Groups: A Systematic Review

J Immigr Minor Health. 2017 Jun;19(3):755-768. doi: 10.1007/s10903-016-0490-3.

Abstract

This paper reviews recent literature on factors influencing suicide behaviours, including thoughts, plans, and attempts, in immigrant and ethno-cultural minority groups, to inform a more comprehensive understanding of suicide behaviours in increasingly culturally diverse populations. Thirty-three studies published between 2002 and 2013 were identified through digital databases searches and included in this review. Analysis of study findings focused on impacts of ethno-cultural identity and acculturation, other cultural and immigration influences, and family and community supports on suicide behaviours. Policy, practice, and research recommendations are identified, to inform relevant suicide prevention efforts and enhance mental health supports for immigrant and ethno-cultural minority populations.

Keywords: Ethno-cultural; Immigrant; Minority; Suicide.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Acculturation*
  • Culture
  • Emigrants and Immigrants / psychology*
  • Ethnicity / psychology*
  • Family Relations / ethnology
  • Health Status
  • Humans
  • Mental Health / ethnology
  • Minority Groups / psychology
  • Social Stigma
  • Socioeconomic Factors
  • Stress, Psychological / ethnology
  • Suicidal Ideation*
  • Suicide, Attempted / ethnology*