Locus of control, anger and suicide

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Criminology
• Sociology

Background:

• Suicide attempts are a significant public health concern.
• Understanding psychological factors associated with suicide attempts is crucial for prevention.
• Previous research has explored various contributing factors to suicidal behavior.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between past suicide attempts and specific psychological constructs.
• To examine the role of indirect hostility and belief in external control in suicidal behavior.
• To interpret findings through the lens of established psychological theories.

Main Methods:

• The study assessed individuals with a history of suicide attempts.
• Indirect hostility scores were measured.
• Belief in control by powerful others was assessed.

Main Results:

• Individuals with prior suicide attempts demonstrated significantly higher scores for indirect hostility.
• A lower belief in control by powerful others was observed in those with a history of suicide attempts.

Conclusions:

• Indirect hostility and a lack of perceived external control are associated with past suicide attempts.
• Findings align with Seligman's learned helplessness theory, suggesting a pattern of perceived powerlessness.
• The results also offer insights when viewed through Henry and Short's theory, potentially indicating different pathways to aggression and control deficits.