Comparison of compensation and capitalization models when treating suicidality in young adults

The current study examined compensation and capitalization treatment models with specific reference to problem-solving appraisal and problem-solving treatment of suicidal behavior (M. D. Rudd, T. Joiner, & M. H. Rajah, 2000). A sample of 98 young adults (mean age = 22), who had recently attempted suicide or ideated about suicide to the degree that they came to clinical attention, were randomly assigned to either problem-solving or control treatment. Participants with poorer problem-solving appraisal at baseline responded better than did participants with greater problem-solving appraisal to problem-solving treatment at 6-month follow-up, as would be predicted by the compensation model. Results suggest that treatment of suicidality for individuals with problem-solving skill deficits may be most effective by targeting these deficits rather than capitalizing on strengths.