Validation of the Korean Version Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire

Objective The Interpersonal Psychological Theory of Suicide posits thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness as the constructs of suicidal desire. This study examined the psychometric properties of the Interpersonal Needs Questionnaire (INQ), which measures thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness, in Korean university students. Method A series of exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to identify the latent structure of the 15-item INQ. Then, its psychometric properties were examined through a correlation analysis and a hierarchical regression analysis. The study included 313 Korean students of which 113 were male and 200 were female. The mean age was 21.51 years. Results The factor analyses supported a two-factor model. However, item 12 cross-loaded on both thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. While the correlation analysis supported convergent validity, discriminant validity was observed only through a more elaborative measure. Furthermore, the hierarchical regression analysis revealed perceived burdensomeness and the interaction between the two constructs as significant predictors of current suicide ideation. Conclusion The difference in the structure of the INQ may be due to cultural influences. Nevertheless, the high predictability of suicide ideation that it produces even when controlling for depression implies its clinical usefulness when assessing suicidal risk in Koreans.