The Role of Fear of Rejection and Frustration Tolerance in Predicting Suicidal Ideation among Medical and Non-Medical Students

This study investigates the influence of fear of rejection and frustration tolerance on suicidal ideation among medical and non-medical students in Patna district, Bihar. A sample of 200 students (100 medical and 100 non-medical) was selected through purposive random sampling. Standardized tools, including the Suicidal Ideation Scale (Sisodia & Bhatnagar), Fear of Rejection Scale (Rejection Sensitivity Questionnaire—Adult Version (A-RSQ)) (Berenson, Downey, and Kang (2009), and the Frustration Discomfort Scale (Harrington), were administered. Results revealed that both fear of rejection and frustration intolerance were significantly correlated with suicidal ideation. Medical students reported higher levels of suicidal ideation and psychological distress. The findings underscore the importance of addressing emotional vulnerabilities in academic populations through institutional support and mental health interventions.