This study analyses the association of emotion dysregulation, dissociation, and maladaptive personality traits on suicidal ideation (SI) within an integrated framework. While prior research has linked each factor to SI, their interactive effects are less explored. We hypothesize that maladaptive personality traits related to SI through emotion dysregulation and dissociation.

Data from 448 participants (32.1% male, M = 26.4 years, SD = 8.43) were analyzed using Structural Equation Models (SEMs) to test interactions between these factors and their links with SI. Descriptive statistics summarized sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and correlations were conducted to examine relationships between key variables and SI.

The Dysregulation Model revealed that emotion modulation was associated with active SI, while the Dissociative Model showed that somatoform dissociation was linked with both active and passive SI. The Full Model indicated that psychoticism was associated with somatoform dissociation and negative affectivity, while disinhibition was linked to emotion modulation. Indirect effects demonstrated significant mediation pathways linking maladaptive traits to SI.

These findings highlight the importance of addressing emotion dysregulation and somatoform dissociation in suicide prevention. Enhancing emotion regulation, especially in individuals with high disinhibition and negative affectivity, may reduce suicide risk. Additionally, addressing dissociative bodily symptoms in individuals with psychotic-like traits is crucial. The integrated model suggests a transdiagnostic approach to suicide risk assessment and intervention, with implications for the prevention of SI.