Role of Optimism in the Interpersonal Psychological Theory of Suicidal Behavior

Abstract

A possible relationship between Joiner's interpersonal-psychological theory of suicidal behavior and the construct of optimism was investigated by examining the ability of optimism to act as buffer against perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability to engage in self-injury in the prediction of suicidal ideation. Results supported the hypotheses that optimism would serve as a buffer against the effects of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness in the prediction of suicidal ideation; however, similar results were not found regarding the acquired capability to engage in self-injury. Optimism moderated the effects of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness, such that high levels of thwarted belongingness or perceived burdensomeness significantly predicted suicidal ideation in those low in optimism, whereas neither thwarted belongingness or perceived burdensomeness significantly predicted suicidal ideation in those high in optimism. Overall findings support the use of therapeutic methods designed to instill optimism in clients at risk for suicidal thoughts.