BACKGROUND: Previous research has demonstrated a strong link between peer victimization and suicidal ideation and aggression. This study examined interpersonal rejection sensitivity as a mediator of these associations. METHOD: Diagnostic interviews and assessments were administered to 80 psychiatrically hospitalized adolescents and their parents. RESULTS: Interpersonal rejection sensitivity mediated the association between peer victimization and suicidal ideation as well as aggression after controlling for participant sex and mood disorder diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Interpersonal rejection sensitivity influences the relation between peer victimization and mental health symptoms, including suicidal ideation and aggression. Assessing for and addressing heightened interpersonal rejection sensitivity among adolescents who have been victimized by peers may decrease the likelihood of negative mental health outcomes. Implications, especially for clinicians, are further discussed.
BACKGROUND: Previous research has demonstrated a strong link between peer victimization and suicidal ideation and aggression. This study examined interpersonal rejection sensitivity as a mediator of these associations. METHOD: Diagnostic interviews and assessments were administered to 80 psychiatrically hospitalized adolescents and their parents. RESULTS: Interpersonal rejection sensitivity mediated the association between peer victimization and suicidal ideation as well as aggression after controlling for participant sex and mood disorder diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Interpersonal rejection sensitivity influences the relation between peer victimization and mental health symptoms, including suicidal ideation and aggression. Assessing for and addressing heightened interpersonal rejection sensitivity among adolescents who have been victimized by peers may decrease the likelihood of negative mental health outcomes. Implications, especially for clinicians, are further discussed.
Authors: Mucheng Xin; Pei Chen; Qiao Liang; Chengfu Yu; Shuangju Zhen; Wei Zhang Journal: Int J Environ Res Public Health Date: 2021-03-02 Impact factor: 3.390