The mediating role of perceived stress, problem-solving skills and marital adjustment in the relationship between economic hardship and suicide probability

The aim of the study was to determine the mediating role of perceived stress, marital adjustment, and problem-solving skills in the relationship between the economic hardship perceived by married individuals and the suicide probability. In addition, determining the relationship between demographic variables such as gender, education level and suicide probability was the second aim of the study. 307 married individuals between the ages of 20 and 60, who live in various provinces, constitute the sample group. 173 (56.4%) of the participants are women and 134 (43.6%) are men. Data were collected using the Economic Hardship Scale, Suicide Probability Scale, Problem Solving Skills Inventory, Marital Adjustment Scale and Perceived Stress Scale. It was found that problem solving skills, marital adjustment and perceived stress had a partial mediating role both in the relationship between total monthly income and suicide probability, and in the relationship between economic pressure and suicide probability. The relationship between gender and education level and the probability of suicide was also examined, and no significant difference was found in terms of gender. However, suicide probability scores of primary and high school graduates were found to be significantly higher than those who had university education and above. Findings suggests that besides the economic difficulties, inadequate problem-solving skills, low marital adjustment, and perceived stress should be taken into consideration in evaluating the probability of suicide. It is thought that the findings can provide valuable clues to mental health professionals during the structuring of the therapies.