Determinants of Suicidal Ideation Among Immigrant Women With Cumulative Exposures to Violence: The Role of Resilience and Social Support

Lifetime exposures to violence and related psychosocial stressors can increase the risk of suicidal ideation among immigrant women. This study examined the impact of cumulative childhood and adulthood victimization, along with key psychosocial stressors, on suicidal ideation among 1265 immigrant women who experienced intimate partner violence (IPV). It also explored the mediating role of coping resources, specifically resilience and social support, in the relationship between lifetime violence exposure and suicidal ideation. Secondary data drawn from an intervention study involving immigrant survivors of IPV were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis procedures. The findings revealed that women who experienced multiple forms of violence in childhood and adulthood were 157% more likely to report suicidal ideation, highlighting the profound, long-lasting psychological impact of such experiences. Additionally, those who faced financial stress were 74% more likely to experience suicidal ideation, underscoring the connection between financial hardship and suicidal ideation. Mediation analysis showed that resilience and social support partially mediated the relationship between violence and suicidal ideation. Higher levels of social support and resilience were associated with 3% and 40% lower likelihood of suicidal ideation, respectively. These results suggest that emotional and social resources and abilities to cope with adversity play a crucial role in mitigating the risks of suicidal ideation, even in the face of significant life stressors. These findings highlight the need for comprehensive, trauma-informed interventions that address psychosocial stressors, strengthen social support, and promote resilience to reduce the risk of suicidal ideation in immigrant women affected by lifetime violence exposures.