Resilience model and reduction of suicidal inclinations among lesbians, gays, and bisexuals

This study explores the association between three dimensions of resilience (internal locus of control, meaning in life, and optimism) and the mitigation of suicidal inclinations among LGB individuals, a demographic known for elevated suicidal predispositions. 231 Israelis, consisting of 92 heterosexuals and 139 LGB participants, between 19 and 58 years old. Assessment tools included the Locus of Control questionnaire, the PIL test, the Optimism test, and evaluation for the Index of Potential Suicide. We found a negative correlation between resilience dimensions and suicidal inclinations across all study participants. Notably, among the LGB subgroup, the negative correlation between internal locus of control and suicidality was less pronounced, suggesting that internal locus of control offered stronger protection against suicide for heterosexual individuals than for LGB individuals. The study underscores the importance of a multi-dimensional resilience model in tailoring interventions for LGB individuals to reduce suicidal inclinations. The key innovation of this study lies in recognizing the need for differential emphasis on specific measures in interventions for each group. For the LGB population, interventions and prevention efforts should prioritize dimensions such as meaning in life and optimism to effectively reduce suicidal inclinations.