The Effects of Risk-Taking Trait and Thwarted Interpersonal Need on Suicidality of Illicit Drugs Abusers: Focusing on Acquired Capability for Suicide

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to examine the effects of trait and situational factors on suicidality among illicit drugs abusers.Methods: Data were collected from 185 illicit drugs abusers in Korea who completed a survey to measure the risk-taking trait, impulsive behavior, acquired capability for suicide, thwarted interpersonal need, and suicidality. Multiple regression and hierarchical regression analyses were conducted for data analysis.Results: The risk-taking trait affected the acquired capability for suicide by partially mediating the impulsive behavior. Additionally, the interaction effect between thwarted interpersonal need and acquired capability for suicide on suicidality was identified.Conclusions: The higher risk-taking trait of illicit drugs abusers induced higher acquired capability for suicide, which actuates the suicidal desire. Additionally, the repeated exposure of impulsive behavior mediated the path. Furthermore, acquired capability for suicide moderated the relationship between thwarted interpersonal need and suicidality. This study examined the effects of trait and situational factors on suicidality of illicit drugs abusers.