Citation

Williams CA, Doorley JD, Esposito-Smythers C. Clin. Child Psychol. Psychiatry 2017; 22(4): 649-663.

Affiliation

Department of Psychology, George Mason University, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1359104517712041

PMID

28617047

Abstract

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.

Language: en

Keywords

Peer victimization; aggression; clinical sample; interpersonal rejection sensitivity; suicidal ideation