Investigating Implicit Associations in Suicidal Individuals
Expansion and Reevaluation of the Implicit Association Test in Suicide Ideators and Suicide Attempters
University of Bern · NCT04585802
This study is trying to see how thoughts and feelings about life and death are connected in people who have thought about or attempted suicide compared to those who haven't.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 280 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Bern (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Bern) |
| Trial ID | NCT04585802 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to explore implicit associations related to suicidal ideation and attempts using a computer-based reaction time task known as the Implicit Association Test (IAT-S). Four different versions of the IAT-S will be employed to assess associations between constructs such as 'self' and 'death', as well as emotional evaluations of 'death' and 'life'. The study will compare these implicit associations among three groups: individuals with a history of suicide attempts, those with suicidal ideation, and individuals without such experiences. The findings could enhance understanding of the cognitive processes underlying suicidal behavior.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-65 who have either experienced suicidal ideation or attempts, or have no history of such behaviors.
Not a fit: Patients with psychoses or significant cognitive impairments, such as dementia, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved identification and understanding of individuals at risk for suicide, potentially informing prevention strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that implicit associations can significantly predict suicidal behavior, suggesting that this approach has shown promise in related research.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-65 years * Ability and willingness to participate in the study * Ability to give consent Exclusion Criteria: * Foreign language * Diagnostic criteria: Psychoses, strong cognitive impairments (e.g. dementia)
Where this trial is running
Bern
- University Hospital of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, University of Bern — Bern, Switzerland (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anja C. Gysin-Maillart, PD — University of Bern
- Study coordinator: Anja C. Gysin-Maillart, PD
- Email: anja.gysin-maillart@unibe.ch
- Phone: 031 632 88 11
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Suicidal Ideation, Suicide Attempt, Implicit Association Test