Peer Relationship Satisfaction, Self-Efficacy, and Adolescents’ Suicidal Ideation in Selangor, Malaysia

Abstract

The occurrence of suicide has become a serious phenomenon throughout the world. This study investigated the relationships between peer relationship satisfaction, self-efficacy and adolescents’ suicidal ideation in Malaysia. The mediation effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between peer relationship satisfaction and adolescents’ suicidal ideation was also examined. A total of 684 school-going adolescents participated in the current study. Pearson correlation and a series of multiple regression analysis were carried out to examine the mediation effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between peer relationship satisfaction and adolescents’ suicidal ideation. The study revealed that peer relationship satisfaction and self-efficacy were negatively correlated with suicidal ideation. This means that adolescents who are more satisfied with their peer relationship and have higher self-efficacy tend to have lower suicidal ideation. Self-efficacy also partially mediates the relationship between peer relationship satisfaction and suicidal ideation. These findings implied that adolescents’ satisfaction with peer relationship is a predictor that impact suicidal ideation, while self-efficacy plays an significant role in the relationship between peer relationship satisfaction and suicidal ideation. Intervention in planning suicide prevention programs should emphasize on both improving peer relationships and increasing self-efficacy among adolescents.