Adolescent Students' Perception of Economic Uncertainty and Tendency to Suicidal Thoughts

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Master's degree, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.

2 Master's degree, Department of Psychology, Faculty of Humanities, Zanjan University, Zanjan, Iran.

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Abstract
Background and Objective: Economic crises and the accompanying uncertainty are recognized as major contributing factors to psychological distress. This study aimed to qualitatively explore the perceptions of adolescent students in Ahvaz regarding economic uncertainty and its association with suicidal ideation.
Method: This qualitative study was conducted in 2024 using a phenomenological approach. The study population included all adolescents living in Ahvaz. A purposive convenience sample of 14 adolescents aged 13–16 years, who had experienced suicidal ideation or suicide attempts and whose families faced unemployment and financial difficulties, was selected. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using Colaizzi’s method.
Findings: Analysis of the interviews revealed eight core themes reflecting adolescents’ multidimensional understanding of economic uncertainty and its psychological consequences: (1) tendency toward self-harming thoughts, (2) suicidal ideation, (3) hopelessness about improving the family’s economic conditions, (4) feelings of loneliness, worthlessness, and decreased self-esteem, (5) perceived economic inadequacy and inability to support the family financially, (6) parental conflicts and tensions arising from financial stress, (7) lack of emotional support from parents during economic hardship, and (8) the influence of school and social culture in reinforcing social rejection and economic marginalization. Overall, the findings indicate that economic uncertainty imposes not only material strain but also significantly contributes to emotional distress and suicidal thoughts among adolescents.
Conclusion: The results demonstrate that adolescents’ perceptions of family economic uncertainty are associated with increased self-harming thoughts and suicidal tendencies. These findings underscore the urgent need for preventive interventions at the family, school, and community levels—such as strengthening psychosocial support, enhancing economic literacy, and reducing financial stress within families—to promote mental health and resilience among adolescents.

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Main Subjects

References

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Journal of Rehabilitation Counseling
Volume 1, Issue 3 - Serial Number 3
November 2025
Pages 175-190

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History

  • Receive Date: 09 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 01 August 2025
  • Accept Date: 06 September 2025
  • Publish Date: 23 September 2025

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