Relations between discrimination, rejection sensitivity, negative affect, and decrements in problem‐solving ability following social rejection: An experimental investigation

Abstract

AbstractIntroductionWhile negative affect and problem‐solving deficits have been consistently linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors, the latter are often conceptualized and studied as time‐ and/or context‐invariant. Though requiring additional empirical support, theory suggests that discrimination may strengthen the relation between rejection sensitivity and increases in negative affect as well as declines in problem‐solving abilities following rejection. The aim of the current study was to test this claim using a social rejection paradigm (i.e., Cyberball) with young adults experiencing past‐month suicidal ideation.MethodsThe sample consisted of 50 participants. Lifetime discrimination and rejection sensitivity were assessed prior to Cyberball. Negative affect and problem‐solving abilities were assessed pre‐ and post‐Cyberball. SPSS and the PROCESS macro were used to test relations among variables of interest.ResultsRejection sensitivity predicted greater problem‐solving decrements, but not negative affect, following rejection among individuals who had experienced higher (vs. lower) levels of lifetime discrimination.ConclusionAddressing rejection sensitivity and sources of discrimination within the context of treatment may reduce the impact of social rejection on problem‐solving abilities among young adults at risk for suicide.