SUICIDAL IDEATION AND SELF-ESTEEM IN MEDICAL STUDENTS

Abstract

The current study aims to determine the association between low self-esteem and suicidal ideation in medical students. The present research is a correlational study with a cross-sectional research design. A total sample of 500 medical students (250 males and 250 females) was selected purposively for the study. The age range of the target group was 18 to 25 years (Mage=21.7, SD=3.61). Entire sample belonged to middle and upper middle socioeconomic status. To assess the variables, Rosenberg's Self-Esteem Scale and The Suicidal Behaviours Questionnaire-Revised (SBQ-R) scales were used along with demographic form which covered the basic information. Responses were scored according to the procedure given in the manuals. Participants were approached through purposive sampling technique after taking approval from different medical universities, Karachi. The mean ± SD of age was 21.07±3.61 years. Findings suggested that low self-esteem as a significant predictor of suicidal Ideation in medical students. It is to be concluded that low self-esteem is an important predictor of suicidal ideation in medical students. Educational institutes should develop a guideline on how to screen and manage suicide ideation among medical students.