TRENDS AND CAUSES OF TEENAGE SUICIDES (Details)

Dr Kanwaljit Soin asked the Minister for Home Affairs if he will give details of the trends and causes of suicides and attempted suicides among teenagers.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Home Affairs (Dr Ong Chit Chung) (for the Minister for Home Affairs): Mr Speaker, Sir, for suicides of teenagers defined as 13-19 years old, the trend for the period 1990-1992 was roughly constant, with 14, 15 and 13 cases in 1990, 1991 and 1992 respectively. In terms of attempted suicides by teenagers, 47 cases were reported in 1990. This fell to 34 and 36 in 1991 and 1992 respectively. 66.7% of those who committed suicide during the period were males. The majority of those who attempted suicide were females, constituting 63.5%. To the extent that we can ascertain from police records, the more common reasons for suicides among teenagers are unhappiness over family disputes and break-up with boyfriends or girlfriends.

Dr Kanwaljit Soin (Nominated Member): Sir, would the Ministry consider having an in-depth study with the Ministry of Community Development and the Ministry of Education on the causes of teenage suicides?

Dr Ong Chit Chung: Sir, we will convey this suggestion to the Ministry of Community Development and the Ministry of Education and the Police will give every possible cooperation.