The role of school climate in rates of depression and suicidal ideation among school-attending foster youth in California public schools

Drawing from the 2013–2014 and 2014–2015 administrations of the California Healthy Kids Survey, this study explored the relationships between school climate and depression tendency and suicidal ideation among foster youth in California public schools. This research also evaluated the data for the secondary purpose of examining the possible differences in the levels of depression tendency and suicidal ideation among foster youth by race and gender. Findings indicated a positive school climate is associated with lower rates of depression tendency and suicidal ideation among foster youth. In addition, female foster youth reported higher rates of depression tendency and suicidal ideation when compared to their male counterparts. We also discovered foster youth of color were significantly less likely to report depression tendency and suicidal ideation than their White peers. Results of this study stand to inform current and future school-based programs and supports for foster youth. •A positive school climate is associated with lower rates of depression and suicidal ideation among foster youth.•Female foster youth reported higher rates of depression and suicidal ideation, compared to male peers.•Foster youth of color had significantly lower rates of depression and suicidal ideation than White peers.