Negative Life Stress, Social Problem-Solving Self-Appraisal, and Hopelessness: Implications for Suicide Research

The role of problem-solving self-appraisal & negative life stress in hopelessness was examined in a sample of 186 college students. Subjects completed the Problem-Solving Inventory, the Life Experiences Survey, the Self-Rating Depression Scale, & the Hopelessness Scale. The results of a hierarchical multiple regression analysis showed problem-solving self-appraisal & its interaction with negative life stress are independent predictors of hopelessness beyond depressed mood. Results are discussed in terms of the implications for future research & treatment of hopelessness & suicidal behaviour. (16 refs.)