Relational Treatment Program for Suicidal Adolescents and Their Families “Life Is Calling”

• Published in: Research on Social Work Practice
• Main Author: Ólafsdóttir, Hrefna
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: SAGE Publications 2018
• Subjects: General Psychology; Sociology and Political Science; Social Sciences (miscellaneous); Iceland
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1049731518813670; http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1049731518813670; http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full-xml/10.1177/1049731518813670

Purpose: Research was performed to evaluate the “Life Is Calling” treatment program for suicidal adolescents and their families. Methods: A confirmatory factor analysis was performed on the Icelandic version of the Reasons for Living Instrument—Adolescents (IRFL-A) using a nonclinical group. The IRFL-A was used to measure the outcome of the program for a clinical group of suicidal adolescents. The nonclinical and clinical groups were compared. The parents reflected on how effective the program was. Results: The IRFL-A instrument was shown to be fit for use in Iceland. The adolescents’ desire to live changed for the better during treatment and 6 months after treatment. According to the parents, the program was very useful/useful for them, the family, and their suicidal adolescent. Conclusion: The IRFL-A is a useful assessment instrument both in clinical settings and for research. The treatment program is effective for suicidal adolescents regardless of their gender or age.