The Role of Thwarted Belongingness and Perceived Burdensomeness on Suicidal Ideation in College Students

Abstract

College is a critical period that is vulnerable to suicide with a prevalence of suicidal ideation of around 12%. Data reports had suicidal ideation during their lifetime. Suicidal ideation is a desire, wish, or thought to commit suicide, which is the first step to suicide. Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (ITS) by Joiner said that suicidal ideation arises when two interpersonal needs are not met, like thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. This study was a quantitative research method that examine the role of TB and PB as two factors causing the emergence of suicidal ideation based on the ITS. The results showed a positive relationship between TB and PB with suicidal ideation in college students. This finding indicates that college students who feel socially disconnected and feel a burden to others tend to have higher suicidal ideation. Keywords: suicide ideation, interpersonal theory of suicide, thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness