Examining factors that influence suicide risk among Black youth involved in the justice system
Official title: Using Mixed Methods to Examine the Risk and Protective Factors of Suicide Among Justice-Involved Black
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10729187 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at what helps or harms the mental health of Black youth in the justice system, focusing on their thoughts about suicide, so we can find better ways to support them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $379,445 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH133905-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10729187 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include Black youth who have had interactions with the juvenile justice system and are experiencing suicidal thoughts or behaviors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not involved in the justice system or who do not identify as Black may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the risk and protective factors associated with suicide and suicidal thoughts among Black youth who are involved in the justice system. By analyzing extensive data from the Florida Juvenile Justice Department, the study aims to identify trends and experiences that contribute to mental health challenges in this vulnerable population. The approach combines qualitative and quantitative methods to ensure a culturally informed understanding of the issues at hand. The findings will help develop targeted prevention and intervention strategies to support these youth.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved mental health interventions and support systems for Black youth involved in the justice system, potentially reducing suicide rates.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into suicide risk among youth, this study's focus on justice-involved Black youth is relatively novel and addresses a significant gap in existing literature.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Lin — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Liu, Lin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.