Influence of Ecological Factors and Internal Resources on Adolescent Suicidal Ideation: An Empirical Study in Colombia

This study analyzes suicidal ideation in Colombian adolescents from an ecological perspective, considering family, school, religious, and psychological factors. A total of 1372 high school students participated. The findings demonstrate that family functionality was directly and positively associated with lower levels of negative suicidal ideation, positioning it as the most influential factor in mitigating risk. This effect was both independent and substantially stronger than that of personal religiosity or school satisfaction, which exerted their influence primarily through indirect pathways mediated by psychological well-being and spirituality. Structural equation modeling confirmed the direct effect of family functionality on suicidal ideation, whereas school satisfaction and religiosity operated exclusively through mediating variables. The study highlights the importance of culturally sensitive preventive interventions that strengthen the family and school environment and promote the spiritual and emotional development of adolescents.