DefinePK

Abstract

This study investigates the psychological and social determinants of suicide ideation in teenagers in Peshawar, Pakistan, with a particular emphasis on the role of parental expectations, gender differences, and protective factors. A cross-sectional quantitative design was used to collect data from 200 teenagers aged 15 to 22 years using validated instruments such as the Suicidal Ideation Scale and the Parental Expectations Scale. The findings revealed that 19% of the individuals had severe suicide thoughts, with academic pressure (31.5%), stress, damaged relationships, and hopelessness recognized as the key contributing reasons. Interestingly, parental expectations were discovered to have a statistically significant positive connection with suicide ideation. While gender-based analysis revealed equal representation in suicidal ideation cases, additional qualitative insights indicated that evolving socioeconomic dynamics affect both male and female adolescents equally. Participants who were battling suicidal thoughts frequently identified protective factors such as family affection (54.3%), religious beliefs (22.8%), maternal attachment, and a desire for a good life. The study emphasizes the critical need for culturally appropriate, school-based mental health interventions, early detection measures, and stronger family support systems. These findings have important implications for policymakers, educators, and mental health professionals working to reduce youth suicide risk in traditional nations such as Pakistan.