The relationship between upward social comparison and suicidal ideation: the mediating role of self-critical rumination and the moderating role of gender

Objective This study aimed to investigate the mediating effect of self-critical rumination and the moderating effect of gender on the relationship between upward social comparison and suicidal ideation. Methods A sample of 650 Chinese college students completed surveys including the Upward Social Comparison Scale, the Self-Rating Idea of Suicide Scale (SIOSS), and the Chinese Version of the Self-Critical Rumination Scale. Results Upward social comparison was significantly and positively correlated with self-critical rumination and suicidal ideation (including dimensions: despair, optimism, and sleep factors). Self-critical rumination fully mediated the relationship between upward social comparison and suicidal ideation. Gender significantly moderated the pathway from selfcritical rumination to suicidal ideation, with a stronger positive association observed among female students. Conclusion These findings clarify the mechanisms underlying the relationship between upward social comparison and suicidal ideation in college students and provide meaningful implications for intervention strategies aimed at reducing suicidal ideation. Specifically, suicide prevention efforts targeting female populations may benefit from placing greater emphasis on the regulation of self-critical rumination.