Unique risk factors for suicide attempt among bisexual/pansexual versus gay/lesbian individuals

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The present study examined whether sexual identity (bisexual/pansexual versus gay/lesbian) moderated associations between risk factors and lifetime suicide attempt (SA). Method Community/college adults who identified as sexual minorities (N = 231) completed a survey examining suicide-related risk factors. Results Greater discrimination and less social support from friends and significant others were associated with greater odds of lifetime SA for both groups, whereas greater emotion dysregulation and rumination were only associated with greater odds of lifetime SA for bisexual/pansexual individuals. Conclusion There are common and unique risk factors for SA among subgroups of sexual minorities, which may have intervention implications.