Degree Name

MA (Master of Arts)

Program

Psychology

Date of Award

5-2006

Committee Chair or Co-Chairs

Jon B. Ellis

Committee Members

Christopher S. Dula, Peggy J. Cantrell

Abstract

Every year in the United States approximately 30,000 people commit suicide including approximately 1,100 college students. Furthermore, heavy alcohol consumption is prevalent on many college campuses and has been linked to suicidal behavior. The present study was conducted to examine suicidal ideation and reasons for living in college students with varying levels of risk for alcohol related problems. Undergraduate students (n = 161) were administered a survey to assess demographics, suicide ideation status, reasons for living, and the participant's level of risk for alcohol related problems. Results indicated that suicide ideators are significantly more likely than non-ideators to be at risk for alcohol related problems. Also, women were significantly more likely to be suicide ideators and endorse more reasons for living. The results of this study may be used to identify groups who are at an increased risk for suicide, as well as to implement more efficient intervention and prevention programs on the collegiate level.

Document Type

Thesis - unrestricted

Copyright

Copyright by the authors.

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