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Published on: April 23, 2015
The integrated motivational-volitional model of suicidal behaviour
Rory C O'Connor1, Olivia J Kirtley2
1Suicidal Behaviour Research Laboratory, Institute of Health & Wellbeing, University of Glasgow, Gartnavel Royal Hospital, Glasgow G12 0XH, UK rory.oconnor@glasgow.ac.uk.
Suicide prevention efforts are hindered by a lack of predictive models. The integrated motivational-volitional (IMV) model explains suicidal ideation through defeat and entrapment, and its transition to behavior via volitional moderators.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Suicide is a significant global public health issue with high mortality rates.
- Despite advances, predicting suicide risk remains a persistent challenge.
- Lack of comprehensive theoretical models for suicidal ideation and behavior transition is a key limitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the integrated motivational-volitional (IMV) model of suicidal behavior.
- To elucidate the factors driving suicidal ideation and the transition to suicidal acts.
- To outline the theoretical basis, empirical support, and future research for the IMV model.
Main Methods:
- Theoretical model development.
- Review of existing literature on suicide risk factors.
- Conceptualization of motivational and volitional components of suicidal behavior.
Main Results:
- The IMV model proposes that defeat and entrapment precipitate suicidal ideation.
- Volitional moderators (VMs) including access to means, capability for suicide, and impulsivity, govern the transition from ideation to action.
- The model integrates psychological, social, and individual factors influencing suicidal behavior.
Conclusions:
- The IMV model offers a framework for understanding the complex pathways to suicidal behavior.
- Identifying and addressing volitional moderators can inform suicide prevention strategies.
- Further empirical testing is crucial to validate and refine the IMV model.
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