Contemporary Models and Theories of Suicidal Behaviour: A Comprehensive Review

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Sociology
• Neurobiology

Background:

• Suicide behavior is a complex phenomenon with diverse theoretical explanations.
• Classical theories (Durkheim, Stengel) provide foundational concepts.
• Contemporary models (Joiner, O'Connor) integrate psychological, interpersonal, and motivational factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a narrative review of suicide behavior models and theories.
• To analyze conceptual contributions, evaluated dimensions, and limitations of various models.
• To identify common limitations and propose directions for future research and intervention.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across major databases (PubMed, PsyINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar).
• Analysis of 27 selected studies meeting inclusion criteria.
• Integrative analysis of theoretical frameworks, empirical relevance, and practical application.

Main Results:

• Classical theories offer a conceptual basis, while recent models provide a broader, dynamic understanding by integrating individual, contextual, and biological factors.
• Common limitations include deficits in empirical validation and challenges in operationalizing theoretical concepts.
• Recent models show increased integration of multi-factorial influences on suicide.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for an integrative theoretical framework to converge individual, interpersonal, and social factors.
• Improved theoretical integration can enhance suicide prevention and intervention strategies.
• Addressing common limitations is crucial for advancing the empirical study of suicide behavior.