A Trait-Interpersonal Perspective on Suicide Risk in Criminal Offenders

Abstract

Despite elevated rates of suicide among offenders, research has yet to adequately address theoretically driven risk models in this population. The present study addresses such a gap by investigating a synthesized framework using 2 well-developed theoretical models, the Five-Factor Model (FFM) of personality and the interpersonal-psychological theory of suicide (IPTS). Archival data from mitigation evaluations for pre-sentenced criminal offenders (n = 307) were analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM). Results supported a hypothesized personality-IPTS-suicide framework in which neuroticism and extraversion predict IPTS components, namely perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability. IPTS constructs subsequently directly and indirectly (via suicidal ideation) predicted suicide potential. Findings have important implications for suicide theory, research, and risk assessment with offenders.