Psychological Models of Suicide

Abstract

Suicidal behavior is highly complex and multifaceted. Consequent to the pioneering work of Durkheim and Freud, theoreticians have attempted to explain the biological, social, and psychological nature of suicide. The present work presents an overview and critical discussion of the most influential theoretical models of the psychological mechanisms underlying the development of suicidal behavior. All have been tested to varying degrees and have important implications for the development of therapeutic and preventive interventions. Broader and more in-depth approaches are still needed to further our understanding of suicidal phenomena.

Contagion from peer suicidal behavior in a representative sample of American adolescents

“…The survey also included assessments of potential confounders based on previous literature on suicide and self-harm (Barzilay and Apter, 2014;Christiansen et al, 2014;Fliege et al, 2009;Haw et al, 2013;Hawton and van Heeringen, 2009;Hawton et al, 2012). These included questions about participant physical health, depressive symptoms, impulsivity, fearfulness, anxiety symptoms, other mental health symptoms, relationship with parents, relationship with friends, sexual orientation, visible minority status, self-esteem, weight image, physical and personality attractiveness (rated by interviewer), parental use of public assistance, intelligence (self-reported and visual IQ test performance), school environment, neighborhood environment, relative physical development, optional thinking, exercise, substance use counseling, psychological counseling, drug and alcohol use, involvement in fights and violence, and exposure to violence.…”

Suicide Crisis Syndrome: A review of supporting evidence for a new suicide‐specific diagnosis

“…Emotional pain Several researchers and theorists suggested that emotional pain is a key component of suicidal behavior (Barzilay & Apter, 2014). Also termed psychological pain, psychache, or mental pain, emotional pain can be defined as intense unpleasant negative emotions which may be characterized by feelings of hurt, anguish, brokenness, and being wounded (Bolger, 1999;Meerwijk & Weiss, 2011;Shneidman, 1999).…”

The interpersonal theory of suicide and adolescent suicidal behavior

“…Joiner's interpersonal theory of suicide (IPTS) (Joiner, 2005) is one of a growing number of promising models developed in the last two decades in an attempt to answer empirical questions about the etiology and course of suicidal behavior (Barzilay and Apter, 2014b). The IPTS offers an explanation for suicidal behavior that is testable, consistent with the empirical evidence, and comprehensively addresses the interplay between intra-individual dynamic systems and interindividual risk factors.…”