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An analysis of suicidal ideation in a college sample
Elizabeth L Jeglic1, Carolyn M Pepper, Holly A Vanderhoff
1John Jay College of Criminal Justice, New York, New York 10019, USA. ejeglic@jjay.cuny.edu
Summary
This study identified borderline personality traits and low social support as key factors correlating with suicidal thoughts in college students. These findings aid in assessing and preventing suicide risk among students.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Suicidal ideation is a significant concern among college students.
- Previous research has identified numerous variables linked to suicidal behavior.
- A comprehensive model for understanding current suicidal ideation is needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a predictive model for current suicidal ideation in college students.
- To investigate the mediating roles of borderline personality characteristics and social support.
- To inform risk assessment, prevention, and treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Study 1: Compared students with past suicide attempts (n=48) to controls (n=49) on nine variables.
- Study 2: Validated the developed Borderline/Social Support (BTSS) model in an independent sample.
- Statistical analyses were used to identify significant correlations and mediating effects.
Main Results:
- Borderline personality characteristics were positively correlated with current suicidal ideation.
- Social support was negatively correlated with current suicidal ideation.
- The Borderline/Social Support (BTSS) model demonstrated predictive validity in an independent sample.
Conclusions:
- Borderline personality traits and social support are significant mediators in the development of current suicidal ideation.
- The validated BTSS model offers a framework for understanding and addressing suicidal ideation in college populations.
- Findings have implications for targeted interventions and improved mental health support for students at risk.
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