A cross-sectional examination of problem solving skills in the context of the interpersonal psychological suicide theory in adults

Objective: In this study, it was aimed to investigate the effects of Interpersonal Psychological Theory of Suicide variables which are twarted belongingness and the perception of being a burden to others, on the relationship between problem solving skills and suicidal thoughts. Materials and Method: The research was carried out between 17 May, 2021 – 24 June, 2021, with 223 participants aged 18 – 65, reached via social media. Data collection tools of the study were Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, Acquired Suicide Capability – Fear of Death Scale, Revised Social Problem Solving Inventory, and Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale. In the analysis phase of the research, Independent Samples T-Test, ANOVA, Pearson's Correlation Analysis and Mediation Analysis were used. Results: The results show that young, single people and people with low socio-economic status have more severe suicidal thoughts, men are less afraid of death, and among the participants who have attempted suicide, the rate of those living alone is higher than those living with their families. According to the simple mediation models it was found that thwarted belongingness had a partial mediation effect and perceived burdensomeness had a full mediating role in the relationship between social problem solving skills and suicidal thoughts. According to the serial mediation model, it was determined that both thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness have full mediation effects in the same relationship. Conclusion: It was found that as the social problem solving skills decrease, thwarted belongingness increases, and as thwarted belongingness increases, perceived burdensomeness increases and accordingly the severity of suicidal thoughts increase. Keywords: Problem solving, Psychological theory, Suicidal ideation, Suicide.