Intergenerational conflict and suicidal behaviour among young people in south India: Development of a conceptual framework

Background: Intergenerational conflict (IGC), characterised by tensions between younger and older generations due to differing values, beliefs, and expectations, is a growing concern that could increase the risk of suicidal ideation/behaviour among youth. Aim: The aim of the study was to develop a conceptual framework (CF) to explore the relationship between IGC and suicidal behaviour among youth aged 18 to 24 years in Chennai, South India. Methods: Using a mixed methods design, 501 consenting youth from higher educational institutions (HEIs) in Chennai were administered the Intergenerational Conflict Inventory (ICI) and Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) to assess IGC and suicidal ideation. In-depth interviews (IDIs) were done with 25 youth reporting IGC, recruited from HEIs, workspaces, and urban slums in Chennai. Results: Quantitative analysis revealed significant associations between higher IGC scores and suicidal ideation/behaviour ( p = .001). Most common areas of conflict were social media use, career expectations and marriage. Three themes identified from the qualitative analysis that explained the CF were, family environment and IGC, suicidal ideation/behaviours and IGC, and coping with IGC. Poor communications, pressures to conform with family role expectations including marriage and restrictions on friendships were major areas of conflict linked to many youths feeling sad, lonely and suicidal thoughts. No resolution of conflicts left youth feeling alone and poorly understood. Conclusion: Findings confirm that IGC is a significant contributor to suicidal ideation/behaviour among youth in South India. The CF provides insights into family dynamics and calls for targeted interventions, including family-based strategies and mental health support in the Indian and possibly in other southeast Asian countries contexts.