Emphasis on Autonomy and Propensity for Suicidal Behavior in Younger and Older Adults

Abstract

A cognitive style marked by emphasis on autonomy has been linked to negative outcomes throughout the life span. Two preliminary studies are presented that examined factors on a measure of autonomy (Personal Style Inventory-Revised) in relation to propensity for suicidal behavior (Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-14; SBQ-14). Perfectionism, B=.15, SE=0.03, p<.01, and Defensive Separation, B=.04, SE=0.01, p ≤ .01, predicted SBQ-14 in younger adults. Need for Control, B=.234, SE=0.10, p<.05, predicted SBQ-14 in older adults. Findings suggest that aspects of autonomy may be relevant to understanding suicidal behavior; however, more research is needed examining the association between autonomy and suicidal behavior in the context of depression. Nonetheless, these studies suggest a promising avenue for future research.