Perceiving a problem-solving task as a threat and suicidal behavior in adolescents

In this study, we examined the I ink between appraisals of problem tasks as a threat or challenge, suicidally and the extent to which this link is mediated by hopelessness and problem-solving performance. We also examined the possible role that cognitive rigidity and emotional regulation play in this link. Participants consisted of three adolescent groups: suicidal inpatients, nonsuicidal inpatients, and a nonclinical control group. Participants received a problem-solving task and scales measuring the above-indicated variables. The two inpatient groups differed significantly from the control group on almost all variables. Moreover, appraisals of problem tasks as a threat emerged as a distal factor of suicidality mediated by hopelessness and problem-solving performance even after controlling for cognitive rigidity and emotion regulation. The discussion focuses on the ways that appraisals of problem tasks can affect suicidal behavior.