The Relationship Between the Sense of Frustration and Suicidal Ideation Among Police Personnel: The Moderating Role of Psychological Capital

Abstract

Background: Police personnel work in high-stress environments, which increases their vulnerability to frustration and suicidal ideation. Objectives: This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the association between frustration and suicidal ideation among police personnel and to examine the moderating effect of psychological capital (PsyCap). Methods: This study employed a descriptive-correlational design. The target population comprised all police personnel in Ahvaz, Iran, in 2025. A convenience sample of 130 officers was recruited. Data were collected using the Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation, the Defeat/Frustration Scale, and the Psychological Capital Questionnaire. Pearson correlation and moderated multiple regression analyses were performed. Results: Internal and external frustration were both significantly and positively associated with suicidal ideation (P < 0.001). Frustration significantly predicted suicidal ideation; however, PsyCap did not significantly moderate this association (interaction P = 0.059). Therefore, the association between frustration and suicidal ideation remained strong regardless of PsyCap levels. Conclusions: The findings indicate a strong association between frustration and suicidal ideation that appears largely independent of PsyCap levels in this cross-sectional sample of police personnel. Future research and preventive interventions should prioritize reducing occupational stressors and addressing frustration to mitigate the risk of suicide among police personnel.