Learned helplessness and suicidality: Role of cognitive behavior therapy

Abstract

Objective: To examine the effect of learned helplessness on suicidality and the impact of cognitive behavior therapy among adolescents. Methodology: This correlational experimental study included adolescents of different schools and colleges of Gujrat. They all were assessed using demographic form, Coping Competence Questionnaire and Adolescents Suicidality scale. There were two groups in the study; experimental and control. Experimental group received treatment after assessment and their treatment consisted of 8 therapy sessions with 45-50 minutes per session, per week. After completing the sessions both groups were reassessed using the same instruments. Results: Out of 422 participants, 51.4% were female and 48.6% male with mean age 16.39 years. Learned helplessness was a significant predictor of suicidality (suicidal ideation, intention & attempt) (R =.341; R2 = .116; F = 55.354, P<0.0.05). Cognitive behavior therapy was a good therapy for learned helplessness with significant at (P<0.012), suicidality at (p<0.002) and suicide attempt (p<0.02). Conclusion: This study confirmed the significant impact of helplessness on suicidality and other factors relates to suicide and also confirms the significant influence of cognitive behavior therapy.