Validation of the Positive and Negative Suicide Ideation (PANSI) Inventory in a diverse sample of young adults.

The psychometric properties and factor structure of the Positive and Negative Suicide Ideation (PANSI) Inventory are reported. Data from 220 Caucasian, 127 African American, 42 Latino/Hispanic, and 39 Asian American college students were collected and analyzed. Results indicate that the two-factor structure and internal consistency of the PANSI were upheld within the minority group sample; however, differences in responses to the PANSI subscales across racial/ethnic groups were observed. Correlational analyses support the convergent validity of the PANSI, although some group differences were noted. The identified group differences are discussed in terms of the utility of the PANSI and a potential need for separate racial/ethnic norms when assessing suicidal ideation and behaviors in diverse individuals.