Pre-suicidal Attitudes in the Youth: A Narrative Review of Psychological Theories and Prevention Implications

Abstract

Understanding pre-suicidal attitudes among youths requires critical inquiry through the lens of psychological theories that can inform early psychological assessment and preventive interventions. This study adopted a narrative review approach to examine the existing theories on pre-suicidal attitudes among youths and to develop an integrative psychological model for prevention. Four psychological theories of suicide that address suicidal attitudes were carefully selected: the Cognitive Model of Suicidal Acts, the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, the Integrated Motivational–Volitional Model, and the Three-Step Theory of Suicide. The analysis revealed four interrelated components of pre-suicidal attitudes: cognitive (dysfunctional beliefs and cognitive rigidity), affective (psychache and hopelessness), behavioural (social withdrawal and passive self-damaging behaviours), and existential (loss of meaning and nihilistic orientations). The findings further suggested that factors such as the digital environment and the developmental stage may moderate and predispose adolescents and youths to pre-suicidal attitudes, while also accelerating their progression toward suicidal behaviour. Integrating these theories may facilitate the identification of individuals at the pre-ideational stage and provide opportunities for proactive prevention and early intervention in youths’ mental health.