ABSTRACT
Suicidality is a complex construct and numerous theories have emerged to explain who is most vulnerable to suicidal desire and behavior and how those individuals develop that vulnerability. Emotion dysregulation is a multifaceted construct that involves deficits across a broad range of areas. The relationship between emotion dysregulation and suicidality becomes more complex, however, when considering results from studies that have looked specifically at suicidal behavior rather than ideation or a broad measure of suicide risk. One theoretical framework that appears to have substantial value in terms of framing the complex relationship between emotion dysregulation and suicidality is the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicidal Behavior. Many aspects of this model remain untested empirically and the evidence base that exists is in many ways preliminary. As such, it is important to consider the findings within that context. Furthermore, some potential sources of confusion should be clarified. The general population engaged in fewer of these behaviors and exhibited lower levels of suicidal desire.
