No Way Out? Cognitive Rigidity and Depressive Symptoms Associated with Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Autistic Youth

Research has found increased premature mortality among autistic individuals, with suicide being one of the most common causes of premature death in autistic youth. This study aimed to fill literature gaps related to suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB) in autistic youth by exploring the clinical predictors of suicidal ideation (SI) and suicidal and/or self-injurious behavior (SSIB) in 404 autistic youth from a clinic database. Consistent with prior literature, STB were elevated in autistic youth compared to general population rates. Self-reported suicidal ideation and behaviors were increased in autistic youth assigned female at birth. Caregivers reported greater SI in older autistic youth as compared to younger youth. Logistic regression analyses showed that elevated depressive symptoms and greater cognitive rigidity significantly increased the likelihood of SI in autistic youth. Results have important implications for understanding factors that increase the risk for suicidal ideation and behaviors in autistic youth and informing the development of responsive interventions.