Suicide Probability in University Students: The Role of Parental Rejection-Acceptance, Emotional and Social Loneliness, Psychological Flexibility

Abstract

The present study aimed to examine the predictive role of demographic characteristics (gender, age, employment status, university type), socio-cultural factors (family structure), and psychological aspects (parental acceptance-rejection, emotional and social loneliness, and psychological flexibility) on suicide probability among university students. A total of 400 university students (222 female, 178 male) aged 18-29 participated in the research. A correlational research model was used. The data were obtained using by the Suicide Probability Scale (PSS), the Parental Rejection-Acceptance Scale (PRAS), the Psychological Resilience Scale (PRS), the Social and Emotional Loneliness Scale (SESL) and the Demographic Information Form (DIF). Hierarchical regression analysis was utilized to analyze the data. The results revealed that gender, maternal neglect, paternal warmth, paternal neglect, paternal rejection, value-driven behaviors, present awareness, defusion, and social loneliness predict the probability of suicide. Among these variables, value-driven behaviors emerged as the strongest predictor, emphasizing the significance of living in accordance with personal values in reducing the probability of suicide. These findings emphasize the importance of addressing both psychological and socio-cultural variables in suicide prevention strategies for university students. The results highlight the need for tailored interventions that foster social connections, enhance psychological resilience, and emphasize the protective role of paternal involvement. © 2025 Elsevier B.V., All rights reserved.