Psychometric properties of suicide risk assessments in young Black populations internationally: a scoping review.

purposeSuicide rates amongst Black young people are increasing and emerging as leading causes of death for various Black subgroups worldwide. Few studies exist examining the reliability and validity of current suicide risk instruments for assessing suicide risk amongst this vulnerable, diverse population internationally. This scoping review examined the psychometric properties of suicide risk assessments among young Black populations globally.

methodsWe utilized Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review framework and the PRISMA guidelines for reporting our results. Our inclusion criteria included psychometric studies with samples involving Black participants ages 10–34 years old.

resultsWe identified 20 studies summarizing eight suicide scales and five mental health scales with embedded suicide risk scales. The Ask Suicide Screening Questionnaire was the most utilized scale amongst Black young people; most suicide psychometric studies were conducted in the USA followed by countries in Sub-Saharan Africa (Nigeria, Uganda and Ghana). ASQ Sensitivity ranged from 67 to 94% and 43–91% specificity.

conclusionOur study reveals that thirteen suicide risk scales have been psychometrically tested with Black young people worldwide, with ASQ being the most commonly tested. The ASQ may serve as a feasible low-burden option in hospital settings to assist with universal screening for Black young people but should be evaluated in other Black young populations in the USA and outside of the USA to confirm cross-cultural validity.