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Problem-solving in suicide attempters

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  14 January 2004

L. R. POLLOCK  and
J. M. G. WILLIAMS
L. R. POLLOCK
Affiliation:
Institute of Medical and Social Care Research, University of Wales, Bangor; and University of Oxford, Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, Oxford
J. M. G. WILLIAMS
Affiliation:
Institute of Medical and Social Care Research, University of Wales, Bangor; and University of Oxford, Department of Psychiatry, Warneford Hospital, Oxford
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Abstract

Background. Recent research studies on the psychological processes underlying suicidal behaviour have highlighted deficits in social problem-solving ability, and suggest that suicide attempters may, in addition, be passive problem-solvers. The aim of this study was to examine problem-solving in suicide attempters (including passivity) and to see whether the deficits are mood-dependent.

Method. Two groups, a suicide attempter group and a non-suicidal psychiatric control group completed measures of depression, hopelessness, suicidal ideation and social problem-solving ability shortly after admission, and again 6 weeks later. In addition, a non-psychiatric control group provided baseline data at a single time point.

Results. The suicide attempter group displayed poorer problem-solving ability than matched psychiatric controls and this difference persisted despite change in mood. However, although suicidal patients were more passive in their problem-solving style than non-psychiatric controls, they were not significantly more passive than psychiatric controls. Problem-solving did not change with improving mood.

Conclusions. Although passivity is not unique to suicidal patients, in combination with the smaller number and less effective alternatives generated, it may increase vulnerability.

Type
Brief Communication
Information
Psychological Medicine , Volume 34 , Issue 1 , January 2004 , pp. 163 - 167
Copyright
2004 Cambridge University Press

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