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The interpersonal theory of suicide states that thwarted belongingness, a perception of social isolation and lack of social connectedness, is an important factor related to the experience of suicidal ideation. A strong familial connection, characteristic of Hispanic/Latino culture, is associated with lower levels of thwarted belongingness. In this study, thwarted belongingness and ethnicity were used to predict lifetime levels of suicidal ideation among Hispanic/Latino and non-Hispanic white undergraduate college students. Based on previous research and their typically high value placed on family, Hispanics were predicted to experience lower levels of suicidal ideation and thwarted belongingness. Thwarted belongingness as well as Hispanic ethnicity were hypothesized to significantly predict suicidal ideation. Additionally, Hispanic status was hypothesized to moderate the role of thwarted belongingness such that Hispanics who reported high levels of thwarted belongingness would experience the highest levels of suicidal ideation. Undergraduate college students, of whom 22% were Hispanic/Latino and 78% were non-Hispanic white (N = 170), completed self-reported measures. Thwarted belongingness, but not ethnicity, significantly predicted intensity of lifetime suicidal ideation. Hispanic/Latino status did not have an effect on suicidal ideation and was not a moderator of the effect of thwarted belongingness. These findings highlight thwarted belongingness as a key factor for assessing suicidal ideation in college students.
