Browsing by Author "Coetzee, Courtney"

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    A Model of the Relationship between PMDD and Suicidal Behaviour, and the Effects of Childhood Abuse among South African University Students
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2024-12) Coetzee, Courtney; Roomaney, Rizwana; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Dept. of Psychology.
    Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder is a mood disorder that is characterised by a cluster of debilitating cognitive, behavioural, and somatic symptoms. Studies have shown an inextricable link between exposure to childhood abuse and PMDD. There is a paucity of quantitative research showing relationships between PMDD and all phases on the spectrum of suicidal behaviour. Little research has attempted to predict risk for suicidality in the face of both PMDD symptoms and a history of child abuse in an integrated model. Utilising Joiner’s Interpersonal Psychological Theory of suicide, the study aimed to determine a structural model of the relationships between PMDD symptoms, suicidal behaviour, and child abuse (CA). This cross-sectional study utilised an online survey questionnaire to collect self-report data from a sample of 1218 female students from Stellenbosch University between March and June 2023. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Structural Equation Modeling was used to examine the 10 hypothesized structural relationships between PMDD symptoms, the constructs of IPT, and child abuse. Findings revealed that a positive screening for PMDD symptoms predicted both Thwarted belongingness (TB)and Perceived Burdensomeness (PB). CA had a direct positive effect on both PMDD symptoms and an Acquired Capability for Suicide (ACS). PB also significantly mediated the relationship between PMDD symptoms and an ACS. Additionally, CA moderated the relationship between TB and an ACS. This study provides support for the IPT, emphasizing the roles of PB and CA in the development of an ACS among women who screen positive for PMDD. Future research needs to include additional factors contributing towards suicide risk in future models to provide support for and strengthen the current model.