Prediction of Suicidal Ideation in Women Based on Dark Personality Dimensions and Social Rejection

Abstract

This study aimed to predict suicidal ideation in women by examining the contribution of dark personality traits and perceived social rejection to inform targeted suicide prevention strategies. An applied, correlational design was employed with a population of married female students at Islamic Azad University in Shiraz in 2024. A total of 200 participants were selected using multistage cluster random sampling. Instruments included the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSSI), the 12-item Dark Triad Dirty Dozen (DTDD), and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Internal consistency was confirmed with Cronbach’s alpha coefficients ranging from 0.77 to 0.89. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21 with Pearson correlation and multiple regression analyses. Dark personality traits collectively explained 34% of the variance in suicidal ideation (R = 0.584, R² = 0.341, F = 58.225, p < 0.001). Narcissism (β = 0.321, p = 0.001) and psychopathy (β = 0.255, p = 0.005) were significant predictors, while Machiavellianism was not (p = 0.121). Perceived social rejection alone accounted for 12% of the variance in suicidal ideation (R = 0.352, R² = 0.123, F = 48.097, p < 0.001). Suicidal ideation in women is shaped by both individual and social factors. Narcissistic and psychopathic tendencies, combined with perceived social rejection, significantly increase suicide risk. Prevention and intervention programs should include personality risk screening and social support enhancement.