Suicide Cognitions as an Indirect Pathway Between Defeat and Entrapment

This study examines the indirect pathway of suicide cognitions in the relationship between defeat and entrapment. Defeat is a complex emotional state involving failure, cognitive evaluations, and coping responses. It can undermine self-efficacy and control, limiting problem-solving and fostering entrapment. Entrapment, defined as immobility due to unresolved internal tensions, intensifies when suicide cognitions emerge, particularly during powerlessness. Using a half-longitudinal design (two waves, partial follow-up) and cross-lagged panel autoregressive analysis, the study assessed 420 adults (Mage = 22.08, SD = 5.99; 320 females, 100 males). Findings indicate that suicide cognitions function as an indirect pathway: defeat increases suicide cognitions, which in turn heighten entrapment. Early identification and intervention targeting suicide cognitions may reduce the impact of defeat on entrapment.