Temporal self-appraisals associated with suicide-related thoughts and behaviors

Background: Temporal self -appraisal (TSA) is the trajectory of self -appraisal over time, including how a person views their past and future selves in relation to their present self. In this study, we examined the TSA of individuals with and without a history of suicide -related thoughts and behaviors (STBs). Methods: Using Amazon Mechanical Turk for recruitment, we studied 397 participants on validated measures of TSA, STBs, and mood. Results: The non-STB group (n = 291) had a TSA trajectory similar to that previously found for nonclinical populations, with perceived self-improvement over time. In contrast, the TSA of the STB group (n = 106) had two distinct qualities: their TSA profiles were more negative at all time points (past, present, and future) than the non-STB group, and they displayed similar anticipated present -to -future growth as the non-STB group but perceived minimal past -to -present change. These differences persisted when controlling for depression, anxiety, and stress, suggesting a distinct STB-related TSA profile independent of comorbid affective states. Limitations: This study is limited by the use of self -report measures and cross-sectional design. Conclusions: By investigating TSA, this study provides insights into the unique aspects of self -appraisal associated with having a history of STBs and emphasizes the need for therapeutic interventions that foster self -continuity and positive self -appraisal across time. Future research should focus on clarifying the mechanisms underlying this distinct self -appraisal pattern in the STB group and the effects of interventions that enhance temporal selfappraisal.