Pattern-Specific Correlates of Contradictory Suicidality Reporting in Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study.

INTRODUCTION: Research has documented substantial proportions of inconsistent suicidality reporters among adolescents; their profile, however, remains unclear. OBJECTIVE: This study estimated the prevalence and correlates of inconsistent reporting. METHODS: Data were drawn from a nationally representative sample of 7,130 secondary-school students surveyed in 2022. Items assessing suicidal ideation, suicide planning, suicide attempt, and post-attempt medical treatment were used to detect contradictory response patterns. Inconsistent reporting was regressed on several sociodemographic, health, and behavioral factors to pinpoint its potential correlates. RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS: Inconsistent reporters represented 15.8% of the study sample. Correlates varied across specific response patterns. The study findings pointed to two broad groups of inconsistent reporters, suggesting differing underlying factors such as hasty reading or mischievousness. Inconsistent reporting is a widespread and multifaceted phenomenon that can bias research findings. Addressing it comprehensively should become standard practice.