The complex relationships between dependency and self-criticism and suicidal behavior and ideation in early adulthood

Abstract

Earlier studies have shown that self-criticism is a robust correlate of suicidal behavior (SB) and suicidal ideation (SI). However, research results regarding the relationship between dependency and SB/SI are mixed. Several studies have also shown that depressive symptoms mediate the relationship between dependency and/or self-criticism and SB/SI. We propose here that: (i) self-criticism may be a moderator of the relationship between dependency and a prior history of SB and SI and recent SI; and (ii) depressive symptoms and borderline personality disorder (BPD) may mediate the relationship between dependency and self-criticism and SB/SI. Young adults (n = 240), aged 18–39 years, completed self-report measures. Self-criticism was a robust correlate of SB and SI in multivariable analyses. Dependency was positively related to SB and SI only at high levels of self-criticism. Moreover, all indirect relationships between dependency and self-criticism and SB and SI via BPD, and some via depressive symptoms, were significant. The results indicate that self-criticism is a robust risk factor for SB/SI in early adulthood. Dependency may be a risk factor, but only at high levels of self-criticism, and/or when dependency-related BPD and/or depressive symptoms are present.