Factorial Differentiation Among Depression, Hopelessness, and Psychache in Statistically Predicting Suicidality

Abstract

Construct validity evidence for measures of depression, hopelessness, and psychache was evaluated with 2,974 undergraduates. Analyses indicated three dimensions each contributing to statistically predicting suicide ideation. Contribution patterns supported the differential validity of these dimensions. Whereas hopelessness most strongly contributed to suicide motivation, psychache contributed most strongly to suicide preparation.