Abstract of

The Literacy Educator's Role in Suicide Prevention

Douglas Fisher

Suicide, the second leading cause of death for adolescents in the United States, is preventable. Nearly 80% of individuals who commit suicide have demonstrated signs well in advance. Adolescent suicide prevention efforts require collaboration with teachers—individuals who know students well. Literacy educators have a role in suicide prevention—sharing books on the topic, talking with students, carefully reading student writing, and inviting guest speakers to class. Examples of the kinds of conversations that adolescents have with adults are highlighted in this article. In addition, the growing number of young adult books that deal with suicide in ways that allow students to engage with the topic are presented.

Abstract from Fisher, D. (2005, February). The Literacy Educator's Role in Suicide Prevention. Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy, 48(5), 364–373. doi: 10.1598/JAAL.48.5.1