Applying the interpersonal psychological theory of suicide, this study explored how instant messaging app use is associated with suicidal ideation through thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. Furthermore, the study examined the moderating role of emotional support in the indirect route to suicidal ideation. Using online panel survey data collected in South Korea, this study performed an SPSS PROCESS macro analysis (Models 4 and 7). The results revealed that instant messaging app use is positively related to lower levels of thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness, which in turn is associated with lower levels of suicidal ideation. Moreover, emotional support significantly moderated the mediating relationship between instant messaging app use and suicidal ideation through thwarted belongingness and perceived burdensomeness. This study suggests that the use of instant messaging apps is indirectly associated with a lower risk of suicidal ideation.
Doo-Hun Choi (Thu,) studied this question.