The Vulnerability Equation
Abstract
Suicidality often emerges at the intersection of who a person is (trait vulnerabilities) and what happens to them (stressful life events). This chapter examines how enduring traits—such as impulsivity, affective instability, or perfectionism—interact with major stressors such as loss, trauma, or failure, creating a heightened risk for suicide. It explores why some individuals struggle to adapt to adversity, how vulnerabilities shape coping responses, and how clinicians can intervene by addressing both underlying traits and the way individuals process life events.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Suicide and Self-Harm Studies
Personality Disorders and Psychopathology
Grief
Bereavement
and Mental Health
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Routledge eBooks
- Pages
- 225–236
- Publication date
- 9 February 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Book chapter