Family Rigidity, Adolescent Problem-Solving Deficits, and Suicidal Ideation: a Mediational Model

This study evaluated the hypothesis that family rigidity has primarily an indirect effect on adolescent suicidal ideation through its effect on adolescent problem-solving deficits. College students & their parents completed the Family Adaptability & Cohesion Evaluation Scale II. Students also completed the Problem-Solving Inventory & the Adult Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire. Structural equation models confirmed that family rigidity has an indirect effect on adolescent suicidal ideation through its effect on adolescent problem-solving deficits. Directions for treatment efforts are discussed. (40 refs.)