Interpersonal and intrapersonal predictors of suicidal thoughts and actions in first-year college students

Abstract

Objective

The aim was to determine the unique predictors of suicide risk in first-year college students.

Participants

First-year students (N = 665) at a Midwestern university participated.

Methods

An online survey assessed Joiner’s interpersonal factors (i.e., thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and acquired capability) as well as intrapersonal factors (i.e., perfectionism, self-compassion, emotional intelligence/reactivity, and growth mindset) often associated with suicidal thoughts and actions.

Results

Linear regression indicated that the factor set significantly predicted thoughts, F (12, 632) = 114.90, p < .000, R² = .680, and actions, F (12, 632) = 58.42, p < .000, R² = .526. Perceived burdensomeness, acquired capability, and underrepresented sexual orientation were positive predictors of both thoughts and actions, whereas growth mindset was a negative predictor of thoughts and stressful life events was a positive predictor of actions.

Conclusion

The results offer direction for evidence-informed interventions aimed at reducing suicide risk in first-year college students.

Keywords:

• First-year college students
• suicidal actions
• suicidal thoughts
• suicide

Conflict of interest disclosure

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. The authors confirm that the research presented in this article met the ethical guidelines, including adherence to the legal requirements, of the United States of America and received approval from the Purdue University.

Funding

No funding was used to support this research and/or the preparation of the manuscript.