The Problem-Solving Diathesis in Depression, Hopelessness, and Suicide Ideation: a Longitudinal Analysis

The problem-solving deficit diathesis-stress model of suicide behavior proposed by Clum & colleagues (1979) & expanded by Schotte & Clum (1982, 1987) was examined in a short-term longitudinal test. The relationship between problem-solving deficits at Time 1 – prior to the stressor (a D or F on a midterm examination) – & adjustment at Time 2 – after the stressor was assessed. Evidence was found for an additive predictive relationship for stress & problem-solving deficits to Time 2 measures of depressive symptoms, hopelessness, & suicide ideation. Evidence was also found that problem-solving deficits X stress interactions uniquely predicted the three criteria. (16 refs.) JA