Work

Emphasis on Autonomy and Propensity for Suicidal Behavior in Younger and Older Adults

Year: 2012

Type: article

Abstract: A cognitive style marked by emphasis on autonomy has been linked to negative outcomes throughout the life span. Two preliminary studies are presented that examined factors on a measure of autonomy (Personal Style Inventory-Revised) in relation to propensity for suicidal behavior (Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-14; SBQ-14). Perfectionism, B=.15, SE=0.03, p<.01, and Defensive Separation, B=.04, SE=0.01, p ≤ .01, predicted SBQ-14 in younger adults. Need for Control, B=.234, SE=0.10, p<.05, predicted SBQ-14 in older adults. Findings suggest that aspects of autonomy may be relevant to understanding suicidal behavior; however, more research is needed examining the association between autonomy and suicidal behavior in the context of depression. Nonetheless, these studies suggest a promising avenue for future research.

Source: Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior

DOI: 10.1111/j.1943-278x.2012.00098.x

Authors: Alisa A. O’Riley, Amy Fiske

Institutions: West Virginia University, University of Rochester Medicine

Language: English

Topic: Suicide and Self-Harm Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Mental Health