Journal of affective disorders
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The interpersonal theory of suicide posits that perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and acquired capability together interact to increase risk for lethal self-injury. Despite the prominence of this theoretical model, few studies have directly tested the three-way interaction central to the theory, with mixed findings reported in studies to date. The objective of this study was to test the theorized three-way interaction in relation to suicidal behaviors in a large sample of college students. ⋯ This study adds to a small but growing body of research testing the three-way interaction among perceived burdensomeness, thwarted belongingness, and capability for suicide in relation to suicidal behaviors. Longitudinal studies using measures that distinguish between suicidal ideation and suicide attempt within the ideation-to-action framework are needed.