Is IQ in Childhood Associated With Suicidal Thoughts and Attempts? Findings From the Mater University Study of Pregnancy and its Outcomes

This study explores associations of IQ at age 14 with adult symptoms of suicidal thoughts & attempts at age 21. Analysis was based on the Mater Univesity Study of Pregnancy & its outcomes, an Australian prospective birth cohort study started in Brisbane, Australia in 1991. Associations with suicide thoughts, plans, & attempts were assessed. In multivariable analysis, there was an inverse association between Raven’s IQ & suicide thoughts, plans, & attempts, but no strong evidence of an association between the Wide Range Achievement Test 3 & the three suicide items. Specific aspects of intelligence may be associated with suicide thoughts, plans, & attempts. (35 refs.)