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Evidence for the Propositions of the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide Among a Military Sample
Author(s) -
Silva Caroline,
Hagan Christopher R.,
Rogers Megan L.,
Chiurliza Bruno,
Podlogar Matthew C.,
Hom Melanie A.,
Tzoneva Mirela,
Lim Ingrid C.,
Joiner Thomas E.
Publication year - 2017
Publication title -
journal of clinical psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.124
H-Index - 119
eISSN - 1097-4679
pISSN - 0021-9762
DOI - 10.1002/jclp.22347
Subject(s) - psychology , interpersonal communication , suicidal ideation , clinical psychology , military service , suicide prevention , interpersonal relationship , poison control , human factors and ergonomics , sample (material) , suicide attempt , psychiatry , social psychology , medical emergency , medicine , chemistry , archaeology , chromatography , history
Objective Although the interpersonal theory of suicide may explain the elevated suicide risk among military service members, past explorations have been equivocal. This study aimed to investigate the propositions of the interpersonal theory in a sample of U.S. Army recruiters. Method Participants ( N = 3,428) completed self‐report measures assessing the interpersonal theory's constructs (i.e., thwarted belongingness (TB), perceived burdensomeness (PB), acquired capability for suicide), current suicidal ideation, agitation, and insomnia. History of depression was obtained from medical records. Results Hierarchical multiple regression analyses revealed that the interaction between TB and PB was associated with current suicidal ideation, controlling for depression, agitation, and insomnia. This effect was especially notable among those with high capability for suicide. Conclusion Findings provide support for the interpersonal theory in a large, diverse military sample. It may be advantageous to assess and therapeutically address TB and PB among at‐risk service members.