Interpersonal Theory Of Suicide Research Articles

Risk and protective factors for suicidal thoughts and behaviors among Black female and male youth with depression symptoms — United States, 2004–2019

BackgroundFrom 2004 to 2019, suicide rates among Black youth increased by 122 % for females and 65 % for males. Guided by the interpersonal theory of suicide, this study explored how perceptions of social support and parental involvement may contribute to suicidal behavior among Black youth aged 12–17 years. MethodsData are from the 2004–2019 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH). Multivariable logistic regression with backwards elimination was conducted to determine if characteristics associated with outcomes of interest (i.e., suicidal ideation, made a suicide plan, and made a suicide attempt) differed by sex. The characteristics examined included: age, poverty level, health insurance coverage, currently receiving mental health treatment, grades for last completed semester, parental involvement, frequency of arguments or fights with parents, frequency of fights at school or work, parental attitudes, and availability of emotional support. ResultsOver 400,000 Black youth with depression symptoms reported suicidal thoughts and behaviors (80 % female). Females had increased odds of suicidal ideation and making a plan if they had no one to talk to about serious problems. Males had increased odds of attempting suicide if they reported academic struggles.Limitations.This is a cross-sectional study and potential biases may affect generalizability of results. ConclusionsRisk and protective factors identified in this study aligned with the interpersonal theory of suicide. Evidence-based interventions that focus on increasing connectedness and self-esteem may be effective for Black youth struggling with suicidal ideation. Preventing suicide requires a comprehensive approach including prevention strategies for individuals, families, and communities.

The bidirectional longitudinal associations between fear of negative evaluation and suicidal ideation among Chinese adolescents: The mediating role of interpersonal needs factors

Based on previous theories and studies, fear of negative evaluation (FNE) may be a key predictor of suicidal ideation in adolescents. However, few studies examined the longitudinal relationships between FNE and suicidal ideation. This study aimed to explore the bidirectional longitudinal relationships between FNE and suicidal ideation. Meanwhile, based on the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, this study would examine the longitudinal mediating role of interpersonal needs factors (thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness) on the relationship between FNE and suicidal ideation.A sample of 515 adolescents (Mage = 12.309, SD = 0.807; 49.3 % girls) completed questionnaires on 4 waves, 6 months apart. The Random Intercept Cross-Lagged Panel Models (RI-CLPMs) were utilized to estimate the associations among study variables. The results showed that: (1) there was a significant bidirectional longitudinal relationship between FNE and suicidal ideation; (2) thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness independently and serially mediated the relationship between FNE and suicidal ideation.This study contributed to understanding the complex relationship between FNE and suicidal ideation, emphasizing the critical roles of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. The findings underscore the bidirectional nature of these associations and provide insights into the potential pathways involved in the development of suicidal ideation among adolescents.

Non-fatal suicide behaviours across phases in the COVID-19 pandemic: a population-based study in a Catalan cohort

The COVID-19 pandemic has been extensively discussed in the context of its effect on mental health. Although global suicide rates have remained stable during the pandemic, the specific effect on non-fatal suicide behaviours during and after the pandemic remains underexplored. This study aims to investigate patterns of non-fatal suicide behaviours before, during, and after the pandemic. In this cohort study, we used data from all hospitals in Catalonia, Spain, collected through the Catalan Suicide Risk Code, which is a specifically designed suicide attempt surveillance protocol, involving a face-to-face, in-depth psychiatric evaluation, after a Catalan resident presents any suicide risk behaviour in any public health-care setting. This evaluation centralises data from suicide registries across the territory. We included non-fatal suicide behaviours, meaning suicidal ideation or attempts that did not result in death, and excluded self-harm behaviours not judged to be linked with suicidal ideation. We considered three periods: the pre-confinement period (Jan 1, 2018, to the enforcement of the lockdown in Spain on March 14, 2020); the confinement period (March 14, 2020, to the end of lockdown on June 21, 2020); and the post-confinement period (June 21, 2020, to Dec 31, 2022). We used Bayesian structural time series models to assess the effect of pandemic phases on non-fatal suicide behaviours, and we ran stratified analyses by sex and age to identify distinct patterns among demographic cohorts. We obtained 26 482 records from Jan 1, 2018, to Dec 31, 2022. The mean age was 37·94 years (SD 18·07), and the sample included 17 584 (66·4%) women and 8898 (33·6%) men. Data on ethnicity were not collected. Temporal trends showed a mild increase in non-fatal suicide behaviours from Jan 1, 2018, to March 13, 2020; a reduction during the confinement period; and a subsequent rise after confinement. Bayesian models suggested a significant causal effect of lockdown easing, resulting in a 50·77% increase in non-fatal suicide behaviours (95% credible interval [CrI] 26·62-76·58; p<0·0001). Stratified analyses indicated that the easing of lockdown resulted in a significant increase in non-fatal suicide behaviours among women (25·92%; 6·71-44·72; p=0·011) and among individuals aged 18 years and younger (72·75%; 38·81-108·11; p<0·0001). This study provides a comprehensive examination of non-fatal suicide behaviours in Catalonia, Spain, emphasising the dynamics of different COVID-19 pandemic phases. The initial reduction during strict lockdown aligns with Joiner's Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, whereas the post-confinement rise reflects complex factors, including social isolation and economic challenges. Sex-specific and age-specific analyses underscore distinct vulnerabilities, emphasising the need for targeted preventive strategies. Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental annual budget of G21, Agència de Gestió d'Ajuts Universitaris i de Recerca of the Generalitat de Catalunya. For the Catalan and Spanish translations of the abstract see Supplementary Materials section.

Suicidality in Veterinarians: Trends at Different Career Stages and a Test of the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide

Objective The aim of this study was to investigate sex differences in suicide ideation and attempt at different career stages and test hypotheses derived from the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) in a sample of veterinarians. Method The sample of currently practicing veterinarians used for this study (N = 10,319) was derived from a larger sample. Participants completed an online self-report questionnaire. Results As predicted, women generally had a higher prevalence of suicide ideation and attempt across career stages, except men and women showed similar rates of suicide attempt after veterinary school. Contrary to hypotheses, no interaction effects between IPTS variables were observed. However, perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and hopelessness exhibited the main effects of suicide ideation, and there were main effects of perceived burdensomeness and hopelessness on suicide attempt. Compared with perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, hopelessness had a relatively more robust relationship with suicide ideation. We also found a significant relationship between fearlessness about death and suicide attempt, but no relationship between self-reported pain tolerance and suicide attempt. Conclusions Some of our findings were consistent with the IPTS while others were not. Future research would benefit from a longitudinal examination of suicidality in veterinarians.

The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide: State of the Science

In this State of the Science review, we summarize the key constructs and concepts within the interpersonal theory of suicide. The state of the scientific evidence regarding the theory is equivocal, and we explore the reasons for and some consequences of that equivocal state. Our particular philosophy of science includes criteria such as explanatory reach and pragmatic utility among others, in addition to the important criterion of predictive validity. Across criteria, the interpersonal theory fares reasonably well, but it is also true that it struggles somewhat—as does every other theory of suicidality—with stringent versions of predictive validity. We explore in some depth the implications of the theory and its status regarding people who are minoritized. Some implications and future directions for research are also presented.

Suicide risk factors among older adults: Implications for counselors as Medicare providers

AbstractProfessional counselors will be eligible to serve Medicare beneficiaries as of January 1, 2024, and Medicare is the primary health insurance program for older adults in the United States. This population is rapidly increasing, and growth is accompanied by increased mental health concerns such as suicide. Older adults who receive home‐delivered meals (HDM) may be at risk due to isolation, especially throughout the coronavirus pandemic. Grounded in the interpersonal theory of suicide, we sought to understand the relationships between proximal (thwarted belongingness; TB, perceived burdensomeness; PB) and distal (chronic pain, loneliness, and perceived social support) risk factors among older adults who receive HDM. TB and PB were correlated with pain, loneliness, and perceived social support, and these variables predicted TB and PB. Understanding relationships between proximal and distal suicide risk factors may inform interventions for counselors to address loneliness, enhance social support, and identify suicide risk among older adults.

Interpersonal relationships and suicidal ideation among Chinese youths: A network analysis

BackgroundSuicidal ideation is a noteworthy health problem that requires further study in the field of interpersonal relationships. The main scope of relationships include family, teachers, peers, and the Internet. However, few studies have considered the effects of interpersonal interactions. Based on the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, this study explores the relation between different interpersonal relationships and suicidal ideation. MethodsA network analysis approach was used to test the relationships. Cross-sectional data (N = 1694; 52.1 % boys; Mage = 11.86 years, SD = 1.59) were collected from primary and secondary students in October–November 2022. Participants completed a survey including demographic part and questionnaires: Positive and Negative Suicide Ideation Inventory (PANSI), Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire (INQ), Family Adaptability and Cohesion Evaluation Scale (FACES II), Inventory of Parent and Peer Attachment (IPPA), Student-Teacher Relationship Scale (STRS) and Facebook Intensity Scale (FIS). ResultsAll variables showed a significant correlation in this inferred network. Family, teacher-student, and peer relationships are protective against suicidal ideation. The closeness of the teacher-student relationship showed the highest strength centrality. However, online interpersonal relationship is a risk factor for suicide. Thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness are proximal factors of suicidal ideation that influenced all interpersonal relationships. LimitationsThe network analysis as a data-driven and exploratory method may be limited to provide exact cause and effect relationship. ConclusionsThis study shows that teacher-student connections may be more important than other relationships of young people. Improper peer and online interpersonal relationship could be risky for suicide. Further studies are needed to examine the role of these relationships elaborately.

“It’s a lot of things”: Zimbabwean university students’ perceptions on the causes of suicide ideation and suicidality among youths during the COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT This research studies university undergraduate students’ perceptions of the causes of suicide and suicidality among the youths in Zimbabwe with reference to the case of Midlands State University. The research also examined the contribution of COVID-19 to suicide and suicidality and the role of the family and church in suicide and suicidality causation or prevention. A qualitative methodology was used to collect data through semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews and a focus group discussion using a sample of 31 participants. Thomas Joiner’s Interpersonal theory of suicide is utilised and adapted to explain suicide ideation among Zimbabwean youths. Abusive, fractured family and romantic relationships, economic frustrations, stigmatisation, loneliness, drug abuse and the pressure to conform were some of the causes of suicide ideation. The research recommends increased regular mental health and suicide prevention awareness campaigns to inform the students on the available services. Supportive, stable and positive relationships and interactions within families and churches are necessary to build resilience against suicide ideation and suicidality.

Examining the relationship between suicide ideation frequency and intergenerational acculturative conflict between Mexican descent college students and their caregivers using the interpersonal theory of suicide.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death among US young adults, with significant racial/ethnic disparities related to the risk for suicide among Latine young adults. Despite the elevated risk for suicide, culturally relevant risk factors are not well-known. Intergenerational acculturative conflict (IAC) among Latine youth is a sociocultural factor associated with suicide ideation. Although widely cited, the interpersonal theory of suicide (IPTS) lacks consistent support among Latine groups. The following cross-sectional study examined relationships between IAC categories (cultural preference, autonomy, and dating/staying out late), IPTS risk factors (i.e., thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness), and suicide ideation frequency among 376 Mexican descent college students sampled using participant pools and snowball sampling (73.7% female: Mage = 19.88). Mediation analyses supported the hypotheses that IPTS risk factors partially explained the links between IAC categories and suicide ideation frequency. These findings advance our understanding of how sociocultural constructs, such as IAC, influence the IPTS and future advancements in culturally responsive treatments for suicide.

A latent class analysis of non-suicidal self-injury and associations with constructs from the interpersonal theory of suicide in a sample of sexual minority young adults

Introduction: Self-directed violence (SDV), comprising both non-suicidal self-injury (NSSI) and suicide, is elevated among sexual minority populations. NSSI age of onset has been shown to impact severity of SDV outcomes. Components of the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (ITS), which includes perceived burdensomeness (PB), thwarted belongingness (TB), and acquired capability for suicide (ACS), may be useful to understanding NSSI subgroups, especially among under-researched groups such as sexual minority persons. Methods: This study examined subtypes of NSSI and associations with constructs from the ITS. A sample of 473 sexual minority young adults with a history of NSSI completed self-report measures assessing demographics, SDV, and ITS constructs. More than half of the sample (59.7%) reported engaging in NSSI during their lifetime. For suicidal thoughts and behaviors, a majority of the sample reported having thoughts of suicide in their lifetime (87.3%), and one-third reported a lifetime suicide attempt (33.0%). Results: Latent class analysis revealed three classes: (1) lower NSSI, (2) moderate NSSI, and (3) higher NSSI. NSSI age of onset, intensity of suicidal thoughts, suicide plan likelihood, duration of NSSI, and number of NSSI methods differentiated groups. Multivariate Analysis of Variance (MANOVA) revealed that the lower NSSI group reported lower PB and TB than the moderate NSSI group. No differences were found for ACS across NSSI classes. Discussion: Results are discussed in terms of their theoretical implications and application for counseling at-risk sexual minority young adults. This study identifies factors associated with subgroups of self-directed violence among sexual minority young adults. Such findings inform gaps in self-directed violence prevention research and clinical practice for sexual minority persons.

The Contribution of Mentalization-Based Theory and Practice for Understanding and Treating Self-Injurious Behavior in Young People

ABSTRACT Despite advances in theory and research surrounding self-injurious behavior (SIB), rates of SIB in adolescents continue to increase. The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) proposes that suicidality results from incorrect mental calculations of perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, but does not consider how these negative interpersonal cognitions are developed. We argue that existing theoretical models for understanding the development and treatment of SIB in youth can be improved by including the role of self and self-function, using mentalization-based theory and practice as a guide. By providing an overview of mentalization-based theory, we illustrate how the development of mentalization can go awry in the early caregiving environment and lead to incoherence in the sense of self. A continuous and reciprocal relationship between an incoherent sense of self and poor mentalization then develops and sustains negative interpersonal cognitions, and subsequent SIB. We build an evidence base for this argument by demonstrating the role of personality, the early caregiving environment, mentalizing, and the sense of self in the development of SIB. Finally, we conclude with clinical implications of how mentalization can be integrated to the treatment of SIB.

Generalisability of the interpersonal theory of suicide to latent profiles of young people attending treatment in a suicide prevention service.

The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (ITS) could help identify differences in groups of suicidal adolescents and inform treatment. Latent Profile Analysis (LPA) using thwarted belongingness (TB), perceived burdensomeness (PB), hopelessness, and capability was conducted on data from an at-risk clinical sample (N = 500). The ITS prediction that changes in TB and PB are associated with changes in suicidal ideation was tested using admission and discharge data. Latent Profile Analysis identified three profiles with increasing complexity and severity on ITS factors. The profiles were labelled low-severity (7.6% of participants), moderate-severity (45.2%), and high-severity (47.2%). ITS predictions were partially supported for the full sample and only for the high-severity and moderate-severity subgroups, whereby changes in TB were significantly associated with changes in suicidal ideation over the course of treatment. However, changes in PB were only significant in the moderate-severity subgroup, and none of the ITS predictions were supported in the low-severity subgroup. Additionally, effect sizes for changes in TB and PB were modest in all analyses. Our findings highlight the importance reducing low belongingness in youth, which is a component of all supported interventions of youth suicide prevention. However, given the modest association of changes in ITS variables had with changes in suicidal ideation, it may be fruitful to elaborate on the relative importance on types of low belongingness or include other non-ITS variables.

Evidence-based treatment for posttraumatic stress disorder decreases suicidal ideation by reducing perceived burdensomeness among veterans in an outpatient program.

Evidenced-based posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatments generally reduce suicidal ideation (SI), and the interpersonal theory of suicide (ITS) may theoretically account for this finding. The ITS posits that SI stems from feeling like a burden (i.e., perceived burdensomeness) and a lack of belonging (i.e., thwarted belongingness). Previous research suggests that change in PTSD severity has a significant indirect effect on change in SI through changes in perceived burdensomeness, but not thwarted belongingness, among patients receiving residential PTSD treatment in a Veterans Affairs (VA) medical center; however, no research has investigated these associations in an outpatient VA setting with fewer confounding factors that might affect ITS constructs. Therefore, the current sample included veterans (N = 126) who completed PTSD treatment and pre- and posttreatment assessments in a VA outpatient clinic. Results from parallel models of multiple indirect effects suggest that change in PTSD severity was indirectly associated with change in SI through changes in perceived burdensomeness, B = 0.35, p < .001; β = .36, p < .001, SE = .10, 95% CI [.15, .54], but not thwarted belongingness, B = 0.14, p = .146; β = .14, p = .161, SE = .10, 95% CI [-.05, .33]. Additional models were examined using PTSD cluster scores for exploratory purposes. The results indicate that PTSD treatment reduces the perceived and objective burden of PTSD to decrease SI. Study findings support the importance of access to evidence-based care to treat PTSD and alleviate burdensomeness for suicide prevention.

The role of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness in passive suicide ideation among Latinx and Black youth.

The interpersonal theory of suicide (IPTS) is used to evaluate suicide risk. Yet, it has not been sufficiently tested with ethnoracially minoritized youth. This study aimed to test whether thwarted belongingness (TB) and perceived burdensomeness (PB) were associated with passive suicide ideation (SI) among Latinx and Black youth. Data were obtained from a cross-sectional study. Some youth participants were recruited from an ongoing NIMH study of depressed Black youth in schools (N = 20). The rest were participants in a supplemental study of non-depressed Latinx and Black youth in community agencies (N = 61). Multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between passive SI and the IPTS constructs. Most participants identified as male (63.5%) and Latinx (59.5%), mean age 15.23 (SD = 1.4). Only TB remained significant when adjusting for age and gender, even after adding a measure of depression symptoms as a covariate. Notably, the interaction term (TBXPB) was not significantly associated with increased odds of passive SI in this sample. These findings confirm the importance of examining the IPTS constructs and their relationship to passive SI in diverse populations. The relationship between TB and SI in Latinx and Black youth suggests it may be an important target for suicide prevention.

Interpersonal Needs, Mental Pain, and Hopelessness in Psychiatric Inpatients with Suicidal Ideation.

Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide and models may help the understanding of the phenomenon and ultimately reduce its burden through effective suicide prevention strategies. The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide and Shneidman's Model have tried to describe different unmet needs related to suicidal ideation. The study aims to assess the association between thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and suicidal ideation in a sample of psychiatric inpatients and the mediating role of hopelessness and mental pain in this association. 112 consecutive adult psychiatric inpatients were administered the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), the Italian version of the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire-15-I (INQ-15-I), the Physical and Psychological Pain Scale, and the Beck Hopelessness Scale (BHS). Mediation models indicated a significant indirect effect of perceived burdensomeness (with thwarted belongingness as covariates) on suicidal ideation intensity with hopelessness as a mediator. When thwarted belongingness (controlling for perceived burdensomeness as a covariate) was included in a model as an independent variable, direct and indirect effects on suicidal ideation intensity were not significant. Psychosocial interventions focusing on identifying and decreasing the perception of being a burden for others and the feeling hopeless could represent a powerful pathway for reducing suicidal ideation. Moreover, the attention toward unmet interpersonal needs may help increase and focus clinical discussions on risk factors, which may help engagement toward psychiatric care and downsize the stigma related to suicide. Raising awareness toward mental health topics is a goal of healthcare services globally.

Suicide risk profiles among service members and veterans exposed to suicide.

Rates of suicide exposure are high among service members and Veterans and are especially concerning given the link between suicide exposure and subsequent suicide risk. However, to date, it is unclear which individuals who are exposed to suicide are subsequently at high risk for suicide. Latent profile analysis (LPA) can provide information on unique risk profiles and subgroups of service members and Veterans who have higher suicide risk after suicide exposure, which has not yet been empirically studied. The purpose of this study was to utilize LPA to identify subgroups of service members and Veterans who are at the highest risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors following suicide exposure. We analyzed data using LPA from 2570 service members and Veterans (82.1% male, 69.5% White, and 12.1% Latino/a/x) who completed the Military Suicide Research Consortium's Common Data Elements, a battery of self-report suicide-related measures. Psychopathology, substance use, mental health service utilization, interpersonal theory of suicide, and suicide exposure variables were used to validate classes. Three latent classes emerged from analyses, one low-risk class and two-high risk classes with differing profile compositions (one primarily differentiated by anxiety symptoms and one differentiated by substance use). Class-specific recommendations for suicide prevention efforts will be discussed.

Examination of real-time variation in interpersonal hopelessness and suicidal desire in a college student sample reporting past-2-week suicidal ideation.

Interpersonal hopelessness (IH), as outlined in the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, is theorized to include two correlated, distinct constructs: hopelessness about one's thwarted belongingness (IH-TB) and about perceived burdensomeness on others (IH-PB). Few studies have explored IH, and none have explored its temporal stability or prospective prediction of suicidal desire. Undergraduates (N = 43) selectively recruited for past-2-week suicidal ideation completed five ecological momentary assessment surveys per day for 10-days. Intraclass correlations, root mean square of successive differences, and multilevel models were used to examine the data and test relationships among predictor variables. IH-TB and IH-PB demonstrated greater temporal stability than general hopelessness. IH-TB, IH-PB, and their interaction were significant predictors of suicidal desire concurrently and prospectively. IH-PB was no longer significantly predictive of suicidal desire when adjusting for general hopelessness. Post-hoc models showed that suicidal desire was not predictive of IH-TB, IH-PB, or their interaction suggesting the relationship is not recursive. Results showed that interventions aimed at decreasing one's hopelessness specific to TB and PB may be beneficial for decreasing suicidal desire. Future research should seek to replicate these results in larger and more diverse samples and consider the use of shorter ambulatory assessment intervals.

A trans-conceptual model for suicide prevention in social work practice: military and veteran populations as an example

ABSTRACT Despite the multi-disciplinarity of suicidology, social work’s contribution to the conceptual framing of suicide has been limited. Consequently, modern prevention efforts insufficiently reflect person in environment and systems perspectives that are foundational to social work practice. This article centers the potential for social work to serve a critical role within the theoretical framing and conceptualization of suicide. Building upon contemporary suicidological perspectives like the interpersonal theory of suicide and critical responses, such as the cultural-structural theory of suicide, a trans-conceptual model for social work practice is presented. Application is highlighted through the example of military personnel and veterans.

Testing the interpersonal theory of suicide in adolescents: A multi-wave longitudinal study.

Suicide is a major public health crisis among youth. Several prominent theories, including the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS), aim to characterize the factors leading from suicide ideation to action. These theories are largely based on findings in adults and require testing and elaboration in adolescents. Data were examined from high-risk 13-18-year-old adolescents (N = 167) participating in a multi-wave, longitudinal study; 63% of the sample exhibited current suicidal thoughts or recent behaviors (n = 105). The study included a 6-month follow-up period with clinical interviews and self-report measures at each of the four assessments as well as weekly smartphone-based assessments of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Regression and structural equation models were used to probe hypotheses related to the core tenets of the IPTS. Feelings of perceived burdensomeness were associated with more severe self-reported suicidal ideation (b = 0.58, t(158) = 7.64, p < .001). Similarly, burdensomeness was associated with more frequent ideation based on weekly smartphone ratings (b = 0.11, t(1460) = 3.41, p < .001). Contrary to IPTS hypotheses, neither feelings of thwarted belongingness, nor interactions between burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness were significantly associated with ideation (ps > .05). Only elevated depression severity was associated with greater odds of suicide events (i.e., suicide attempts, psychiatric hospitalizations, and/or emergency department visits for suicide concerns) during the follow-up period (OR = 1.83, t(158) = 2.44, p = .01). No effect of acquired capability was found. Perceptions of burdensomeness to others reflect a critical risk factor for suicidal ideation among high-risk adolescents. Null findings with other IPTS constructs may suggest a need to adopt more developmentally sensitive models or measures of interpersonal and acquired capability risk factors for youth. Refining methods and theoretical models of suicide risk may help improve the identification of high-risk cases and inform clinical intervention.

Perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and hopelessness as predictors of future suicidal ideation in Spanish university students

The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) has received support for its role in understanding suicidal thoughts and behaviors. However, few longitudinal studies have focused on testing this theory in university students. The present study aimed to confirm the theoretical model of the IPTS in a sample of 225 Spanish university students, using path analysis in a longitudinal study. We assessed thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness at T1 and hopelessness and suicidal ideation at T2, 12-14 weeks later. Moreover, we assessed suicidal ideation weekly for 14 weeks. Path analyses confirmed the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide model, with thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness as direct and indirect predictors of suicidal ideation through hopelessness. Providers of guidance and clinical services in university settings should be trained to identify perceived burdensomeness, social belongingness, hopelessness, and suicidal ideation when screening for suicide prevention.