First Advisor

Wright, Stephen L.

Document Type

Dissertation

Date Created

7-1-2016

Department

College of Education and Behavioral Sciences, Applied Psychology and Counselor Education, APCE Student Work

Embargo Date

12-20-2018

Abstract

As suicide rates have increased over the past decade, it has become increasingly important for researchers and clinicians to develop a better understanding of the factors that may influence suicide-related behavior. The present study investigated the interrelationships between attachment styles, constructs of the interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide, and self-reported suicide risk among a sample of undergraduate college students (N = 435). Structural equation modeling was utilized in order to develop a well-fitting model based on collected data. Results showed that attachment anxiety and attachment avoidance were positively associated with higher levels of perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, but not the acquired capability of suicide. In turn, perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and the acquired capability for suicide were positively associated with higher levels of self-reported suicide risk. The indirect relationship between attachment anxiety and self-reported suicide risk was partially mediated by the constructs of the interpersonal theory of suicide and the indirect relationship between attachment avoidance and self-reported suicide risk was fully mediated by the constructs of the interpersonal theory of suicide. These results suggest that the assessment of attachment styles and the constructs of the interpersonal theory of suicide may play an important role in evaluating and understanding suicide risk.

Keywords

Attachment, College Students, Interpersonal-Psychological Theory, Suicide Risk

Extent

239 pages

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

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