Year: 2008 Source: Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, v.38, no.1, (February 2008), p.1-12 SIEC No: 20080611

Data from a community-based multi-wave investigation were used to examine a developmental model of risk for depression & suicidality following the death of a spouse. Measures of perceived parental affection & control during childhood were administered to 218 widowed adults 11 months after the death of the spouse. Self-esteem, spousal dependency, depression, & suicidality were assessed 9 months later. Depressive symptoms mediated significant association of dependency on the deceased spouse & low self-esteem with suicide ideation & behaviour. (60 refs.)