Factor influencing suicide intent in gay and bisexual suicide ideators: differing models for men with and without human immunodeficiency virus

J Pers Soc Psychol. 1991 Nov;61(5):776-88. doi: 10.1037//0022-3514.61.5.776.

Abstract

Of 778 gay and bisexual men (none with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome [AIDS]), 27% (n = 212) reported suicidal ideation over the previous 6 months. Covariance structure models were used to explore predictors of suicide intent among (n = 112) suicide ideators with (n = 100) and without (n = 112) human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Current AIDS-related stressors (deaths and illnesses and perceived AIDS risk) and past levels of adaptive functioning (social isolation and depression) were significantly more powerful predictors of suicide intent among HIV-positive than among HIV-negative ideators. Biological AIDS risk predicted neither suicide intent, current distress, nor perceived AIDS risk. Pathways to suicide intent appear to be psychologically, rather than biologically, mediated. Among HIV-positive ideators, AIDS-related death and illness events predicted suicide intent but not current distress symptoms. Some suicidal ideation in response to AIDS-related events may be an effort to cope rather than a manifestation of psychological distress.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Adaptation, Psychological
  • Adult
  • Bisexuality / psychology*
  • HIV Infections / psychology*
  • HIV Seropositivity / psychology
  • Homosexuality / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Risk Factors
  • Social Support
  • Suicide / psychology*
  • Thinking