A Psychological Autopsy of an Intellectually Gifted Student With Attention Deficit Disorder. Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Cross, Tracy L.; Cross, Jennifer Riedl; Dudnytska, Nataliya; Kim, Mihyeon; Vaughn, Colin T.
• Is Part Of: Roeper review. Volume 42:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 6
• Page End: 24
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: Depression -- gifted -- lived experience -- psychological autopsy -- suicide -- twice exceptional; Gifted children -- Education -- Periodicals; 371.9505
• DOI: 10.1080/02783193.2019.1690081
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0278-3193

Abstract

ABSTRACT: A psychological autopsy of an 18-year-old male with dual exceptionalities contributes to our understanding of suicide among students with gifts and talents. Using four theories and models of suicide and research on the lived experience of students with gifts and talents, a comprehensive analysis of this adolescent's life offers implications for future suicide prevention among these students. Schools that are unprepared for exceptional students (gifted and/or 2e) may contribute to students' distress. Professional development and adequate resources focused on the unique needs of exceptional students will promote a responsive environment for students' positive psychosocial development. Parents, educators, and counselors need information and strategies for responding to community members in distress. Such knowledge can foster the necessary positive attitudes toward evidence-based treatment for conditions that affect well-being. The importance of limiting access to lethal means among persons in distress cannot be overstated.