Perfectionism and Interpersonal Theory of Suicide

The current study was conducted to investigate the associations among multidimensional perfectionism, suicidal ideation, and the interpersonal theory of suicide. The author's primary purpose was to focus on the mediating effects of the social dimensions of suicidality (thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness) on suicidal ideation and social dimensions of perfectionism (other-oriented and socially prescribed). A sample of 266 undergraduate and graduate students at a large southeastern university completed the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire, Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (Worst), Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (Current), Psychological Distress Index, Beck Hopelessness Scale, and demographic measures. Analysis confirmed that all perfectionism dimensions were positively associated with suicidal ideation. Thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness were positively association with suicidal ideation, as expected. Mediation analyses revealed partial mediation by perceived burdensomeness of socially prescribed perfectionism and suicidal ideation and self-oriented perfectionism and suicidal ideation. Perceived burdensomeness fully mediated the relationship between other-oriented perfectionism and suicidal ideation. Thwarted belongingness fully mediated the relationship between other-oriented perfectionism, socially prescribed perfectionism, and self-oriented perfectionism, respectively, with suicidal ideation. Results suggest social isolation is at play when perfectionists are experiencing suicidal ideation Particularly, perfectionists who believe others have unrealistic standards of perfection as well as perfectionists who have unrealistic standards of perfection for others may experience perceptions that they are unable to fit into social groups due to these standards. Clinicians working with perfectionist clients should target not only maladaptive thinking, but also interpersonal interactions.