Mentalization and Social Cognition in Adolescents After Suicide Attempt

This study investigates the risk of violent suicide attempts in adolescents, with a particular focus on social cognition and sleep disturbances, to better understand the cognitive and behavioral mechanisms involved and to inform more targeted prevention strategies. Violent suicide attempts are defined as the use of methods with a high immediate lethal potential. They are associated with distinct clinical profiles and specific risk factors, including an increased risk of recurrence and completed suicide. Although the association between suicidal behavior and psychiatric disorders is well established, evidence regarding the underlying neurocognitive factors remains inconsistent. In particular, little is known about the role of social cognition in suicidal risk among adolescents. Research in this area is limited, leaving an important gap in our understanding of the cognitive processes that may contribute to the emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors during adolescence. In addition, studies conducted in community-based adolescent cohorts have shown that insufficient sleep duration is independently associated with increased suicidal ideation and suicidal behavior, even after accounting for depressive symptoms.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adolescents aged 12 to 16 years, inclusive * Having made a violent or non-violent suicide attempt * Hospitalized in the Department of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Necker Children's Hospital * No intellectual disability (IQ \> 70) * Sufficient proficiency in French to complete the study assessments; at least one parent or legal guardian must also have sufficient proficiency in French * Written informed consent obtained from the holders of parental authority and assent obtained from the adolescent * Covered by a health insurance scheme Exclusion Criteria: * Current psychotic disorder or documented history of a psychotic disorder * Current manic or hypomanic episode * Severe neurological or medical condition likely to significantly affect cognitive performance * Moderate-to-severe substance use disorder requiring specialized treatment * Acute intoxication or withdrawal state at the time of assessment- Written informed consent obtained from parents or legal guardians and assent obtained from the adolescent