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

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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.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Applied Social Sciences, Institute of Active Ageing, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Kowloon, Hong Kong

    Daniel W. L. Lai

  2. Faculty of Social Work, University of Calgary, Calgary, AB, Canada

    Daniel W. L. Lai & Lun Li

  3. Department of International Relations, University of Sussex, Brighton, UK

    Gabrielle D. Daoust

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  1. Daniel W. L. Lai
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  2. Lun Li
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Correspondence to Daniel W. L. Lai.

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Lai, D.W.L., Li, L. & Daoust, G.D. Factors Influencing Suicide Behaviours in Immigrant and Ethno-Cultural Minority Groups: A Systematic Review. J Immigrant Minority Health 19, 755–768 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10903-016-0490-3

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