Evaluating the role of Poly-Victimization and Perceived Social Support in Suicidal Ideation Among University Students in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

The issue of suicidal ideation and self-harm behavior among university students has become a public health problem in Pakistan. The present study focused on the relationship among experiences of poly-victimization, perceived social support and suicidal ideation among University students in Lahore. The design for this survey was quantitative, cross-sectional, and the tools used to collect the data included standardized instruments that assessed the victimization experiences, perceived social support, and suicidal ideation. The results showed that perceived social support was negatively associated with suicidal ideation while poly-victimization was positively associated with suicidal ideation. Additionally, regression analysis showed that both victimization experiences and perceived social support were significant predictors of suicidal ideation, suggesting that victimization was a risk factor and that social support was a protective factor. Overall, there was little evidence of gender differences in the study variables, but some differences were found with specific types of victimization. The results support the Stress-Buffering Hypothesis, the General Strain Theory, and the Interpersonal Theory of Suicide, highlighting the need to focus on victimization experiences to prevent internalization of suicidal thoughts and increase social support networks to buffer the impact of victimization experiences on the development of suicidal ideation among university students. Overall, the study sheds light on the importance of implementing mental health programs in universities, providing trauma-informed support services, and promoting mental health education and prevention strategies to create a safer school environment and enhance students' mental health in Pakistan.