Trapped in a Pathological Paradigm: Critiques of Suicidology Scholarship and Practice

Abstract

Suicide among Africana youth, ages 10–19, is increasing at a faster rate than all ethnoracial groups in the US. Over four decades, epidemiological data reveal an upward trend in Africana youth suicidal behavior. We contend that the rising rates of Africana youth suicide cannot be effectively addressed because suicidology is trapped in a pathological paradigm based on the imposition of European cultural hegemony. Focusing on Africana youth, two critiques are presented. First, the inefficacy of universalism as a standard in suicidology is delineated. Intrapsychic, individually oriented approaches are overemphasized and a culturally incongruent epistemology undergirds scientific methodologies; thus, advancing culturally dystonic suicide prevention/intervention efforts. Second, the underinvestigated role of contextual oppressive factors in gender disparities discussions, risk factors impacting Africana youth, and the salience of social integration as a protective factor are deconstructed. Recommendations for multidisciplinary training/curricula, collaboration with social justice organizations, and supporting culturally defined and practice-based evidence approaches are outlined.