An application of the interpersonal theory of suicide in relation to sexual orientation: The moderating effects of problem-solving and social support

Suicide is a global cause of death and disability. Its complex nature underscores the importance of understanding the psychological factors that contribute to suicidal behavior across diverse populations and highlights the need for culturally sensitive research. The Interpersonal Theory of Suicide (IPTS) is a well-known framework for understanding suicidal behavior through its central concepts: perceived burdensomeness (PB), thwarted belongingness (TB), and acquired capability for suicide (ACS). However, empirical investigations of this theory remain scarce in non-Western contexts and among sexual minority populations, which face elevated risk. The present study aimed to examine the applicability of the IPTS within a Turkish sample comprising both heterosexual and non-heterosexual individuals. Guided by the minority stress framework, it was hypothesized that interpersonal risk factors would mediate the relationship between sexual orientation and suicidal ideation. Additionally, social problem-solving skills (SPSS) and perceived social support (PSS) were expected to serve as protective factors. A total of 383 participants aged 18 to 35 (M = 25.72, SD = 4.16), including both heterosexual and non-heterosexual individuals, completed an online questionnaire. Results indicated that both TB and PB significantly predicted suicidal ideation, whereas suicide attempts were individually associated with TB and FAD. TB mediated the link between sexual orientation and suicidal ideation, whereas PB did not. SPSS emerged as a protective factor, attenuating the negative effects of both PB and TB on suicidal ideation, whereas PSS similarly moderated the impact of PB.The findings support the cultural applicability of the IPTS in this mixed sample and highlight the importance of both interpersonal and structural interventions to effectively reduce suicide risk.