By this, I mean, one specific theory, whether widely known and accepted, almost as "conventional wisdom", or a peripheral theory few may be familiar with. What makes this theory particularly compelling, or "true," in your opinion?
The interpersonal theory of suicide, proposed by Joiner (2005), stands out as a highly compelling modern theory in the field of suicidology. This theory posits that three key factors contribute to the development of suicidal ideation and behavior: thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and acquired capability for suicide.
Thwarted belongingness refers to the experience of feeling disconnected from others and lacking meaningful social connections. It encompasses the notion that individuals who lack a sense of belongingness may be more prone to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Perceived burdensomeness, on the other hand, involves the belief that one is a burden to others and that their absence would be beneficial for everyone. This perception of being a burden can significantly increase suicide risk.
The acquired capability for suicide component of the theory suggests that individuals must acquire a certain level of tolerance for pain and fear of death to engage in suicidal behavior. This acquired capability is developed through repeated exposure to painful or provocative experiences, which desensitizes individuals to the fear of death and increases their likelihood of engaging in self-harm or suicide.
What makes the interpersonal theory of suicide particularly compelling is its ability to integrate both social and individual factors in understanding suicide. It acknowledges the importance of social connectedness and the perception of one's value to others, aligning with empirical evidence that highlights the association between social support and suicide risk (Van Orden et al., 2010).
Furthermore, the theory addresses the paradoxical nature of suicide by explaining how individuals can have a strong desire to die while simultaneously being deterred by the fear of pain or death. The acquired capability for suicide component provides an explanation for this paradox, suggesting that repeated exposure to painful experiences reduces the fear of death and increases the likelihood of engaging in suicidal behavior.
Empirical research has provided substantial support for the interpersonal theory of suicide. Studies have consistently found associations between thwarted belongingness, perceived burdensomeness, and suicidal ideation (Van Orden et al., 2010; Chu et al., 2017). Additionally, the acquired capability for suicide has been shown to predict future suicidal behavior and differentiate between individuals with and without a history of suicide attempts (Anestis et al., 2014; Ribeiro et al., 2014).
In conclusion, the interpersonal theory of suicide offers a comprehensive and integrative framework for understanding the complex nature of suicidal ideation and behavior. Its emphasis on both social and individual factors, along with the empirical support it has garnered, solidifies its validity and relevance in the field of suicidology.
References:
Anestis, M. D., Soberay, K. A., Gutierrez, P. M., Hernández, T. D., & Joiner, T. E. (2014). Reconsidering the link between impulsivity and suicidal behavior. Personality and Social Psychology Review, 18(4), 366-386.
Chu, C., Buchman-Schmitt, J. M., Stanley, I. H., Hom, M. A., Tucker, R. P., Hagan, C. R., ... & Joiner, T. E. (2017). The interpersonal theory of suicide: A systematic review and meta-analysis of a decade of cross-national research. Psychological Bulletin, 143(12), 1313-1345.
Joiner, T. E. (2005). Why people die by suicide. Harvard University Press.
Ribeiro, J. D., Franklin, J. C., Fox, K. R., Bentley, K. H., Kleiman, E. M., Chang, B. P., ... & Nock, M. K. (2014). Self-injurious thoughts and behaviors as risk factors for future suicide ideation, attempts, and death: A meta-analysis of longitudinal studies. Psychological Medicine, 44(10), 225-236.
Van Orden, K. A., Witte, T. K., Cukrowicz, K. C., Braithwaite, S. R., Selby, E. A., & Joiner, T. E. (2010). The interpersonal theory of suicide. Psychological Review, 117(2), 575-600.
Very interesting question and replies... I would like to know especially for Older people... If there is any specific theory...
Please stick to the original request: don't add additional tangential questions, and if you "answer" the question, please explain what the theory says, and why you find it compelling. So far, we have only one answer to my question. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is not a theory of suicide; it's one potential treatment. Thanks.
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