Reexamining the latent structure of suicidal thoughts using taxometric analysis: Implications for testing ideation to action theoretical models of suicidal thoughts and behavior.

A central question in psychological science concerns whether constructs are best conceptualized as dimensional or consist of one more categories. The present study uses contemporary taxometric procedures to examine the latent structure suicidal thoughts, with implications for how thoughts and behavior (STB) ought be conceptualized, assessed, measured, managed. Three nonredundant (MAMBAC, MAXEIG, L-Mode) were performed on various sets indicators, analyses replicated across two large samples that included numbers individuals reporting current recent STB. Results provide further evidence is understood dimensional. However, inconsistent findings studies relatively small number conducted date both suggest it premature draw clear definitive conclusions about STB being categorical based evidence. We report a meta-analysis literature which evidences this ambiguity. detailed, critical discussion outline key directions future area, particularly analysis relates testing ideation action theoretical models, hypothesize development progression from suicide desire attempting distinct processes explanations/mechanisms. It remains entirely possible qualitatively types (e.g., representing vs. action) populations have different structures indicating levels risk. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2021 APA, all rights reserved).