Delayed reward discounting and increased risk for suicide attempts among U.S. adults with probable PTSD

PTSD is an established risk factor for suicide attempts and suicide death, but the mechanisms underlying this association remain unknown. The present study examined associations among delayed reward discounting-the balance between smaller immediate available rewards versus larger delayed rewards-self-reported PTSD symptoms, and recent suicide attempts among individuals reporting suicide ideation within the past year.

A cross-sectional survey of U.S. adults completed the Primary Care PTSD Screen for DSM-5, the 21-item Monetary Choice Questionnaire, and the Self-Injurious Thoughts and Behaviors Interview-Revised. Analyses of variance and multinomial regression models were used to test associations among variables.

Among participants reporting suicide ideation within the past year, discount rates were significantly higher among those reporting more PTSD symptoms and a past-year suicide attempt, suggesting these participants expressed a preference for immediately available rewards.

Choice behavior among individuals reporting many PTSD symptoms and a recent suicide attempt is influenced to a greater degree by immediately available rewards. Sensitivity to immediate rewards at the expense of larger delayed rewards may reflect a vulnerability for suicidal behavior among individuals screening positive for PTSD.