Correlation of cognitive resilience, cognitive flexibility and impulsivity in attempted suicide

Abstract

Context: Impaired cognitive flexibility and resilience and increased impulsivity are presumed to underlie an attempt of suicide. There is, however, a paucity of research examining their relationship in those who attempted suicide. Aims: To know the correlation of cognitive flexibility and resilience and impulsivity in attempted suicide. Materials and Methods: Two hundred seventy subjects with suicide attempt (s) were assessed with sociodemographic and clinical proforma, cognitive flexibility scale (CFS), cognitive resilience scale (CRS), and Barratt impulsiveness scale (BIS-15). Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics, linear regression model. Results: Mean scores on CFS, CRS, and BIS-15 were 44.93 (SD ± 2.50), 4.49 (SD ± 0.25), and 36.13(SD ± 2.13), respectively. On linear regression analysis, BIS-15 nonplanning had statistically significant negative correlation with CFS and CRS scores, and BIS-15 attention had a positive correlation with CFS and CRS scores. CFS and CRS scores were positively correlated. Conclusions: In attempted suicide, cognitive flexibility and resilience are interrelated positively and inversely associated with impulsivity (nonplanning and inattention).

Keywords

• Attempted suicide
• cognitive flexibility
• cognitive resilience
• impulsivity Key messages: High levels of cognitive flexibility
• cognitive resilience and impulsivity are present in attempted suicide. Cognitive flexibility and resilience are not protective in the presence of high impulsivity.