A psychometric study of the Suicide Cognitions Scale with psychiatric inpatients.

• DOI: 10.1037/pas0000028
• Publication Date: 2014-10-06T15:45:03Z
• Authors: Thomas E. Ellis; Katrina A. Rufino
• Keywords: Depression

The cognitive model of suicide makes specific predictions about the role cognition in risk. This study examined psychometric properties Suicide Cognitions Scale (SCS), an instrument designed to measure suicide-specific cognitions, a sample 150 patients (age range, 18-75 years, SD = 14.42; 56% female, 94% White) hospitalized for risk associated with multiple, treatment-resistant psychiatric conditions. Findings revealed strong properties, including internal consistency and test-retest reliability. Incremental validity beyond depression hopelessness was demonstrated prediction suicidal ideation. Confirmatory factor analysis examining previously reported solutions suggested more three-factor solution (Unlovability, Unbearability, Unsolvability) relative two-factor solution. Good sensitivity treatment response over course hospitalization also demonstrated. hypothesis residual risk, derived from theory predicting that lack change schemas would be higher at discharge, supported. Overall, these findings suggest considerable promise SCS as adds predictive utility measures hopelessness, potential usefulness planning monitoring individuals.