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. 2015 Sep 22;5(3):255-9.
doi: 10.5498/wjp.v5.i3.255.

On the role of impulsivity and decision-making in suicidal behavior

Yari Gvion  1 , Yossi Levi-Belz  1 , Gergö Hadlaczky  1 , Alan Apter  1
Affiliations

On the role of impulsivity and decision-making in suicidal behavior

Yari Gvion et al. World J Psychiatry. .

Abstract

Suicide risk constitutes a complex set of interacting demographic, clinical, psychobiological and environmental variables. Impulsivity is a long-known risk factor for suicide attempts. However, research based on clearer conceptual refinement in this area is imperative. One emerging field of study is that of decision-making. Impulsivity involves a failure of higher-order control, including decision-making. Using standardized operational definitions that take into consideration relevant aspects of impulsivity, including state- and trait-components and a deeper understanding of the process of decision-making in the suicidal mind, we may come a step closer to understanding suicidality and winning the fight in this scourge of human suffering.

Keywords: Decision-making; Impulsivity; Suicidal behavior; Suicide.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Theoretical model of the suicidal behavior process.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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