comparative investigation of the predictive utility of the variables of ideation-to-action framework theories in the development of suicidal ideation among iranian adolescents

Background: the ideation-to-action framework of suicide, which includes the interpersonal theory of suicide (ipts), the integrated motivational volitional model (imv), and the three step theory (3st), expands upon traditional suicide theories by differentiating between the emergence of suicidal thoughts and the transition to a suicide attempt. each of these theories identifies distinct key variables: the ipts focuses on perceived burdensomeness and thwarted belongingness, imv emphasizes defeat and entrapment, while 3st highlights pain and hopelessness. objectives: the current study aimed to examine the predictive utility of the key variables of the ideation to action framework theories to predict suicidal ideation in adolescents. patients and methods: this cross-sectional study included 476 iranian adolescents (76.3% female, 23.7% male), aged 12 to 20 years (17.03 ± 4.83), selected through convenience sampling. participants were recruited from four secondary schools in grades 6 to 12 across different regions of tehran, iran, between september and october 2024.beck scale for suicidal ideation (bssi), interpersonal needs questionnaire (inq), defeat scale (ds), entrapment scale (es), beck hopelessness scale (bhs), and psychache scale (ps) were used to collect data.data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis. results: all variables were statistically associated with suicidal ideation. multiple regression analysis demonstrated that except for thwarted belongingness and entrapment, other factors could significantly predict suicidal ideation. hopelessness (β = 0.309) was found to be the strongest predictor, followed by psychological pain (β = 0.239), defeat (β = 0.234), and perceived burdensomeness (β = 0.166). conclusions: suicidal ideation development may be conceptualized as a complex interplay of simultaneous and possibly interactive parameters. hopelessness, psychological pain, defeat, and perceived burdensomeness should be targeted in suicidal prevention and intervention programs. this study is limited by its cross-sectional design, self-report measures, and use of a non-clinical sample. future studies should use longitudinal designs, utilize alternative assessment methods, and examine clinical populations to enhance the validity and generalizability of findings.