Dimensions of the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS-A) and the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ-30) as Cognitive Vulnerability Factors in the Development of Suicide Ideation

Abstract

The investigation of factors that may render an individual vulnerable to the development of suicide ideation may provide some light on the etiology of suicidal behavior and consequently contribute to the prevention of suicide. Based on this idea, an examination of the relationship between the underlying dimensions of the Dysfunctional Attitude Scale (DAS-A), the Automatic Thoughts Questionnaire (ATQ-30) and suicide ideation was conducted. The six DAS-A components and the two ATQ-30 components reported by Chioqueta and Stiles (2006a, 2006c) were among the variables employed in the present study. In a sample composed of 102 male military recruits, initially assessed at the Army School (Pretest) and re-tested 3 months later (Posttest), a series of multiple regression analyses were conducted. The results demonstrated that the two subscales of the ATQ-30 (Negative Self-Concept/Personal Maladjustment and Desire for Change/Negative Expectations), but none of the DAS-A subscales, predicted suicide ideation 3 months later. Thus, automatic thoughts reflecting ideas of negative self-concept, perceptions of personal maladjustment, thoughts of desire for change, and negative expectations seem to be more associated with suicide ideation than depressogenic beliefs.