Factor structure and validity of the suicidal narrative inventory among Indian adults

Background: The suicidal narrative is a presuicidal state comprising several risk factors for suicide and is assessed using the Suicidal Narrative Inventory (SNI). Aims To assess the internal structure, reliability, and validity of SNI among Indian adults. Methods Between August 2020 and January 2021, the SNI, together with other self-report measures, was administered to adult respondents using an online anonymized questionnaire. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) was carried out to test the factor structure of the SNI. Results Usable responses were obtained from 302 participants (Mage = 43.5 ± 17.9 years, 53.6% female). The results of an eight-factor CFA of the SNI resulted in good model fit (χ2 [637] = 969.73, p < .001, comparative fit index = 1.00, root mean square error of approximation = .04). Internal consistencies of SNI subscale scores ranged from acceptable to excellent (range α = .67-.92). Most subscales significantly converged with other measures although these associations were minimal for the goal disengagement and reengagement subscales. Limitations The use of an online survey method to collect data introduced sampling bias. Conclusion The eight-factor CFA of the SNI, among Indian adults, was consistent with prior data. Our findings provide preliminary support for the use of SNI to assess the suicidal narrative construct among Indian adults.