Background:

Research shows higher rates of ideation and attempted suicide in the homosexual population compared to their heterosexual counterparts. To date, there are no known studies in Colombia that investigate risk factors related to suicidal behavior in a male homosexual population.

Objective:

The objective of the present study is to investigate the risk factors for suicidal ideation in young men living in Bogota (Colombia) who self-identify as homosexuals.

Methods:

175 males between 14 and 27 (19.02 ± 2.0) years completed two tests, one for suicidal thoughts and one for internalized homophobia (IH). The snowball non-probability sampling technique was used.

Results:

18.4% reported low suicidal ideation, 24.6% a moderate level and 24% declared a high level of suicidal thoughts. IH scores ranged between the expected minimum and maximum (9-45) (21.54 ± 7). Being sexually abused was the main factor associated with suicidal ideation (OR = 4.02; 95%CI, 1.51-10.67; P = 0.005). Adolescents were 3 times more at risk of suicidal thoughts than young adults (OR = 3.63; 95%CI, 1.35-9.76; P = 0.010). High IH scores were twice as likely to experience suicidal thoughts as those with low IH (OR = 2.11; 95%CI, 1.22-3.67; P = 0.008).

Conclusions:

These findings are consistent with previous research and suggest the need for early preventive interventions in pursuit of non-coercive sexual health, seeking the re-examination of IH through affirmative sexual diversity therapies.

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