Perfectionism and suicide ideation : an assessment of the specific vulnerability hypothesis and stress generation model

Abstract

Main Findings: • Self-oriented perfectionism (SOP) and socially prescribed perfectionism (SPP) are significantly correlated with levels of suicide ideation six months later. • Consistent with the Specific Vulnerability Hypothesis, a significant Perfectionism x Stress interaction was found for self-oriented perfectionism and achievement stressors in predicting suicide ideation six months later. • In keeping with the Stress Generation Model, mediational analyses indicated that stress (i.e., achievement and interpersonal stressors) fully mediated the link between self-oriented perfectionism and suicide ideation, and stress partially mediated the link between socially prescribed perfectionism and suicide ideation six months later. • Together, these findings suggest that perfectionism traits act as vulnerability factors that enhance and generate stresses in influencing suicide ideation over time among community adults. Clinical Implications: • Understanding how perfectionism generates and interacts with acute or chronic life stress can be very helpful in identifying and treating those who display suicidal ideation or engage in suicide behaviour. • When treating perfectionistic persons, a clinician should assess their appraisals of the ongoing stressors and events and inquire about suicidal thoughts because some perfectionists may actively conceal or hide such thoughts. Future Directions: • Replication of the study using measures of stress other than self reports, e.g., dairy, physiological measures, and etc. • Testing the perfectionism-suicide models among other ethnic groups. *p <.05, **p <.01 (2-tailed)