Testing Thwarted Belongingness and Perceived Burdensomeness in Suicidal Ideation and Behavior in Students: Investigating the Moderating Role of Hopelessness: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Hopelessness, belongingness, and perceived burdensomeness are important risk factors for suicidal ideation. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to determine the interaction of hopelessness, thwarted belongingness, and perceived burdensomeness in suicidal ideation and behavior. Materials and Methods:The method of the present study was descriptive and modeling. The study population included all students of Mohaghegh Ardabil University in the academic year 2020; out of which 650 people were selected using convenience sampling method and completed the questionnaires of Hopelessness, Depressive Symptom-Suicidality Subscale, Suicidal Behavior, and Interpersonal Needs in an online way. Data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation and Hayes' macro PROCESS tests. Results:The results showed a significant positive relationship between negative hopelessness and belongingness (r=0.45, p<0.001), burdensomeness (r=0.37, p<0.001), idea (r=0.32, p<0.001), and suicidal behavior (r=0.26, p<0.001). There was also a significant positive relationship between positive hopelessness and belongingness (r=0.32, p<0.001), burdensomeness (r=0.37, p<0.001), idea (r=0.25, p<0.001), and suicidal behavior (r=0.26, p<0.001). The results also confirmed the interaction of hopelessness, belongingness, and burdensomeness in suicidal ideation and behavior. Conclusion:In general, this study supports the interpersonal theory and the interaction among hopelessness, belongingness, and burdensomeness concerning suicidal ideation and behavior. Based on these findings, it is suggested, to reduce suicidal ideation and attempt, holding skills and motivation training courses can increase hope in people.

Suicidality among university students in the Eastern Mediterranean region: A systematic review

“…Due to their significant role in the decision making of youth, family and peer support should be highly integrated in the new system. The heavy use of internet within the population of university students and their familiarity with this technology could be leveraged to better guide youth through the mental healthcare system with web-based solutions dedicated to psychoeducation and counselling services that fit students' needs [20,23,96]. As a good start, looking at the Egyptian experience, the ministry of health in collaboration with the WHO and experts from the university of British Columbia, has just launched a platform for E-Mental Health, as an innovative and appropriate alternative, considering the current inadequacy in the current youth mental health care system with high demand from youth to use this platform [36].…”