Autobiographical Memory, Interpersonal Problem Solving, and Suicidal Behavior in Adolescent Inpatients

This study tested Williams’ theory of suicidal behaviour in adolescents & young adults by examining the relationship among suicidal behaviours, defective ability to retrieve specific autobiographical memories, impaired interpersonal problem solving, negative life events, repression, & hopelessness. 25 suicidal inpatients were compared with 25 nonsuicidal inpatients & 25 healthy controls. Impairment in the ability to produced specific autobiographic memories, difficulties with interpersonal problem solving, negative life events, & repression were all associated with hopelessness & suicidal behaviour. Findings support Williams’ theory. (61 refs.)