Evaluating the role of interpersonal hopelessness in the interpersonal theory of suicide

Abstract

To further inclusion of interpersonal hopelessness within the interpersonal theory of suicide, we evaluated the Interpersonal Hopelessness Scale’s (IHS) factor structure, and compared its relation to suicide ideation to that of the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire’s. Participants were 591 attentive US adults who completed surveys online. Exploratory factor analyses supported a single IHS factor, which accounted for about 70% of the total variance. Both measures statistically predicted suicide ideation; the IHS explained slightly more variation in suicide ideation scores. Including interpersonal hopelessness within measures of the interpersonal theory’s constructs may prove important in developing suicide risk assessment and treatment.