An exploration of the interrelationship between intimacy resolution, coping styles, and suicidal attitudes among a sample of university students.

Abstract

Whilst much has been written about the determinants of suicidal behaviour within a South African context, few studies have investigated suicidal behaviour from a developmental context. This study explored the relationship between suicidal tendencies, coping styles, and Intimacy vs. Isolation. There were 175 participants between the ages of 18 to 24 years. Scales measuring coping, suicidal attitudes, and intimacy resolution were administered. The data was analysed quantitatively. Most significant in the findings is the relationship that exists between intimacy resolution, suicidal attitudes and active coping styles. These and other findings provide an initial but empirically important platform for future research endeavours that aim to understand the incidence of suicide amongst one of the most at-risk groups in South Africa today.