An examination of the interactive effects of different types of childhood abuse and perceived social support on suicidal ideation

Abstract

ABSTRACTNo study has examined the interaction between child abuse type and social support in relation to adulthood suicidal ideation. In the present study, 141 female survivors of child sexual abuse or physical abuse completed an online survey of childhood abuse, social support, and suicidal ideation. The findings demonstrated a significant interaction between childhood abuse group and family support, and the interaction between childhood abuse group and friend support approached significance. The present study provides the first evidence that family and friend support may be particularly beneficial in helping to buffer the effects of childhood sexual abuse on risk of adulthood suicidal ideation.