Relation of response set to observed suicide intent.

Abstract
Previous research has demonstrated the forceful presence of a desirability response style in the measurement of variables (e.g., hopelessness) related to suicidal behaviour. This subsequent study investigates the relationship of patients'' response style to ratings of suicidal intent. Fifty suicide ideators were assessed using Beck''s Scale for Suicide Ideation. Beck''s Hopelessness Scale and the response style scales of the Personality Research Form. An item factor analysis of the Scale for Suicide Ideation yielded two factors: Suicidal Desire and Suicide Preparation. Hopelessness and undesirability were associated with Suicidal Desire, but hopelessness was independent of Suicide Preparation. It appeared that negative desirability responding represents a distress set in the context of suicidal behaviour.