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Anger-Related Affect and Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Kirsten H Dillon1,2,3, Tapan A Patel4, Molly Goodrich5
1VA Mid-Atlantic Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center, Durham, NC.
Summary
Anger, hostility, and irritability are linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, with a moderate correlation found in this meta-analysis. Understanding these anger-related affect links is crucial for suicide prevention efforts.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Anger-related affect, encompassing anger, hostility, and irritability, is increasingly recognized as a transdiagnostic risk factor for suicide.
- Suicidal thoughts and behaviors represent a significant public health concern globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the existing literature and quantify the effect size of the relationship between anger-related affect and suicidal thoughts and behaviors through a meta-analysis.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis was conducted, synthesizing data from 107 published studies.
- The total sample size across all studies was 141,434 participants.
- Relationships between suicidal thoughts/behaviors and anger, irritability, and hostility were examined.
Main Results:
- A moderate average correlation (r = .31) was found between anger-related affect and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
- Effect sizes were lower for studies assessing suicide attempts compared to death by suicide or ideation.
- Effect sizes were higher for current suicidal thoughts/behaviors versus lifetime occurrence and for assessments via self-report/chart review versus clinical interviews.
Conclusions:
- Anger-related affect is an important potential risk factor for suicide.
- Further longitudinal research is recommended to explore different facets of anger, such as experience versus expression, in relation to suicide.
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