Vol. 6, Issue 1, Part B (2024)

The study aimed to explore the psycho-social correlates of suicidal ideation among adolescents, focusing on family environment, psychological distress, cognitive style, and gender differences. Suicidal ideation has emerged as an alarming mental health concern among adolescents worldwide, reflecting the growing need to understand its underlying determinants. The rationale for the study stemmed from the rising prevalence of suicidal thoughts in this age group and the lack of comprehensive research integrating familial, psychological, and cognitive aspects simultaneously.
A sample of 300 adolescents (150 males and 150 females), aged 14-17 years, was selected from co-educational CBSE schools in Ghaziabad city using random sampling. Standardized tools were administered, including the Family Environment Scale (Bhatia & Chadha, 2015) ^[1], Cornell Medical Index Health Questionnaire, Cognitive Style Inventory and the Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire. The study adopted a correlational design, and data were analyzed using correlation and multiple regression analysis to determine the predictive influence of independent variables on suicidal ideation.
Preliminary analyses revealed significant associations between family environment dimensions (especially cohesion, conflict, and acceptance-caring), psychological distress factors (notably depression and anxiety), and suicidal ideation. Cognitive styles also played a moderating role, with intuitive and integrated styles showing differing patterns of association. Gender differences were evident, indicating that females reported higher levels of psychological distress and suicidal ideation compared to males. The findings underscore the multifactorial nature of suicidal ideation among adolescents and emphasize the importance of family dynamics, emotional well-being, and cognitive patterns in prevention and intervention strategies. Future research should focus on longitudinal assessments and family-based counseling interventions to mitigate adolescent suicidality.