Citation

Chen JI, Osman A, Freedenthal SL, Gutierrez PM. Arch. Suicide Res. 2019; ePub(ePub): 1-27.

Affiliation

University of Colorado School of Medicine.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2019, International Academy of Suicide Research, Publisher Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/13811118.2018.1563576

PMID

30636520

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: Elevated suicide risk among veteran populations remains a significant public health concern. However, few suicide assessment measures have been validated for veterans. The current study evaluated the reliability and validity of the Reasons for Living Inventory (RFL) scores among veteran populations.

METHODS: The participants included male veterans (N = 421) from a broad range of ages, combat exposures, and history of suicide attempts. Participants completed the RFL and a set of additional self-report measures of relevant constructs in a cross-sectional design.

RESULTS: Estimates of internal consistency reliability were adequate for scores on all the original RFL subscale scores. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and exploratory bifactor (bi-factor EFA) analyses provided detailed information regarding the six-factor solution from the original validation studies with the RFL (Linehan, Goodstein, Nielsen, & Chiles, 1983). Additional analyses identified potential correlates for the RFL total and subscale scores. Secondary analyses showed support for evidence of known-groups validity for the RFL total scale score.

CONCLUSION: Overall, this study provides initial support for the RFL as a reliable and valid measure of protective factors in veterans. Future studies may wish to consider further validation of the current findings.

Language: en

Keywords

Psychometrics; Reasons for Living; Suicide; Veterans