Inducing Self-Dehumanization to Examine Oxytocin and Suicide Risk

The goal of this experiment is to further determine if self-dehumanization is a novel risk factor for suicide. This study will induce self-dehumanization using a novel experimental self-dehumanized future condition (i.e., a futuristic paradigm that likens the individual to a machine) and compare this group to a control group to analyze the pathway between higher perceptions of self-dehumanization, suicidal ideation, and changes in oxytocin concentrations. It is hypothesized that participants randomly assigned to the self-dehumanized mechanistic future condition will exhibit temporary increases in suicidal ideation (which will be thoroughly assessed, intervened upon following the induction) and decreases in oxytocin concentrations as compared to the control condition, which will not display significant changes. Further, we will explore if the magnitude of the oxytocin response will partially mediate the change in suicidal ideation.

Inclusion Criteria: * Between the ages of 18 and 40 * Biological females will be screened to ensure that they have a regular menstrual cycle with a length of 26-30 days and will be scheduled according to their cycle (see Research Strategy for details). * At least a moderate level of self-dehumanization (i.e., a sum score of 12 or greater out of a possible score of 28) and lifetime suicidal ideation Exclusion Criteria: * A phobia of needles (i.e., Trypanophobia) * Any medical conditions precluding them from engaging in a 10-hour fast (consumption of water is allowed and encouraged) * Life-threatening suicide risk which would result in taking appropriate steps to ensure safety of the individual (e.g., hospitalization) * A psychosis-related diagnosis