1 - (SYM 27) Minority Stress and Suicide Risk: Evaluating the Influence of Negative Self-evaluations and Suicidal Desire

Background: While the minority stress model has been relied upon to explain increased suicide risk among sexual minorities, minority stress models alone are thought to be necessary but not sufficient in explaining suicide risk within this population (Ploderl et al., 2014). Examination of both the minority stress model and interpersonal theory of suicide (ITS) suggest that minority stress increases risk for suicide by contributing to suicidal desire (Fulginiti et al., 2020). However, despite evidence suggesting negative self-schemas arise in response to minority stress and play a critical role in suicide risk among sexual minorities (Mann et al., 2021), shame and self-hatred have not been considered in research examining the minority stress model and ITS. Moreover, despite research suggesting that shame increases risk for suicide by contributing to suicidal desire (Zhao et al., 2020), the role of shame and self-hatred on the development of suicidal desire among sexual minorities has not been investigated. To understand the role of negative self-evaluations and suicidal desire on suicide risk among sexual minorities, this study examined the influence of negative self-evaluations and suicidal desire on the association between minority stress and suicide risk.

Methods: Participants identifying as sexual minorities (N = 388; Mage = 34.39; 44.1% male) from a nationwide community sample were recruited via Prolific. Respondents completed surveys assessing perceived discrimination (Williams et al., 1997), negative self-evaluations (Andrews et al., 2002; Turnell et al., 2019), suicidal desire (Bryan et al., 2011; Price et al., 2022; Quinless & Nelson, 1988), and suicide risk (Chang & Chang, 2016; Joiner et al., 2002).

Results: Structural equation modeling was performed to test the hypothesized model. Overall model fit was considered acceptable, and results revealed a significant indirect effect of minority stress on suicide risk through negative self-evaluations and suicidal desire (b=0.105, p=0.007). However, the direct effect of minority stress on suicide risk was not significant (b=-0.022, p=0.053).

Discussion: This study advances the field by identifying mechanisms that may contribute to the development of suicide risk in sexual minorities. Findings suggest that experiences of minority stress may contribute to negative self-evaluations, which influence suicidal desire, increasing risk for suicide. Results highlight the utility of targeting negative self-evaluations among sexual minorities to decrease suicidal desire and risk.