Exploring Social Connectedness Through The Perspectives Of Latina Adolescents At Risk For Suicide, Their Families, And Providers In The Life Is Precious Program

Latina adolescents in the United States experience disproportionately high rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, yet culturally responsive interventions remain limited. Social connectedness—a protective factor against suicide—plays a critical role in adolescent well-being but is shaped by complex sociocultural, familial, and systemic influences. This study explores how Latina adolescents with lived experiences of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (N=12), their families (N=5), and providers (N=12) perceive and experience social connectedness within the context of Life is Precious (LIP), a treatment-adjacent community-based intervention designed to support Latina youth at risk for suicide. Guided by Zayas’ Eco-Developmental Model and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) this qualitative study employs semi-structured interviews and photo-elicitation interviews to examine connectedness across family, peer, school, and community domains. Data from Latina adolescents, their family members, and LIP providers reveal both facilitators and barriers to connectedness, highlighting the dynamic and evolving nature of social relationships. Findings illustrate how cultural values such as familism, gender roles, and acculturation stress shape Latina adolescents’ experiences of belonging and isolation. While LIP enhances connectedness by fostering relationships and emotional support, structural barriers—including stigma, discrimination, and systemic inequities (e.g., immigration-related stress, economic hardship)—continue to limit access to sustained support. This study contributes to the growing body of research on culturally tailored, community-based suicide prevention strategies. By centering the voices of Latina adolescents, their families, and providers, it underscores the urgent need for interventions that not only enhance social connectedness across multiple domains but also address the structural and cultural factors that influence mental health outcomes. Findings have implications for the refinement of LIP and the development of broader suicide prevention initiatives that integrate cultural responsiveness, social support, and community engagement.

Name thesis:degree_name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Social Work

Year dc:date.available

2025

Author dc:creator

• Tuda, Daniela

Contributors dc:contributor

• Leopoldo Cabassa
• Ana Stefancic; Byron Powell; Jeremy Goldbach; Theresa Anasti

• Latina;Photo Elicitation;Qualitative;Social Connectedness;Suicide
• Social and Behavioral Sciences
• Social Work

Language dc:language

English (en)

Identifier

https://openscholarship.wustl.edu/brown_etds/51

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:openscholarship.wustl.edu:brown_etds-1050