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Childhood stress leads to later suicidality via its effect on cognitive functioning
1Department of Psychology, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg 24061, USA.
Suicide & Life-Threatening Behavior
|November 18, 2000
Summary
Early life adversities impact suicidal behavior indirectly by affecting cognitive functions like self-esteem and problem-solving skills in college students. Cognitive deficits mediate the link between negative life events and suicidal behavior.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
Background:
- Suicidal behavior is a complex issue with multifactorial origins.
- Understanding the interplay between early life experiences and cognitive factors is crucial for prevention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the etiological pathways of suicidal behavior.
- To examine the mediating role of cognitive functioning between early life events and suicidal behavior.
Main Methods:
- Structural equation modeling was used.
- 181 college students (suicidal and nonsuicidal) participated.
- Early negative life events (child maltreatment, family instability) and cognitive factors (self-esteem, locus of control, hopelessness, problem-solving) were assessed.
Main Results:
- Early negative life events had a mild direct impact on suicidal behavior.
- Cognitive deficits were strongly influenced by early negative life events.
- Cognitive deficits significantly predicted suicidal behavior.
Conclusions:
- Cognitive functioning acts as a key mediator in the relationship between early adversity and suicidal behavior.
- Interventions targeting cognitive deficits may help mitigate suicidal behavior risk in vulnerable populations.
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