Emphasis on autonomy and propensity for suicidal behavior in younger and older adults.

A cognitive style marked by emphasis on autonomy has been linked to negative outcomes throughout the life span. Two preliminary studies are presented that examined factors on a measure of autonomy (Personal Style Inventory-Revised) in relation to propensity for suicidal behavior (Suicidal Behaviors Questionnaire-14; SBQ-14). Perfectionism, B = .15, SE = 0.03, p < .01, and Defensive Separation, B = .04, SE = 0.01, p ≤ .01, predicted SBQ-14 in younger adults. Need for Control, B = .234, SE = 0.10, p < .05, predicted SBQ-14 in older adults. Findings suggest that aspects of autonomy may be relevant to understanding suicidal behavior; however, more research is needed examining the association between autonomy and suicidal behavior in the context of depression. Nonetheless, these studies suggest a promising avenue for future research.