earticle

영어

The purpose of this research study was to explore social support as a moderator in the relationship between depression and suicidal thought in a sample of the public officers in charge of social welfare. This study also examined the impact of depression on suicidal thought among the public officers in charge of social welfare. The samples were 287 public officers in charge of social welfare in Gyeonggi-do. The findings indicate that increased depression is associated with a high level of suicidal thought. The research results show that social support was an important resource for reducing suicidal thought of the public officers in charge of social welfare. As the perception about social support by public officers increased, their level of suicidal thought was decreased. Also, there was an evidence in favor of the moderating role that social support may serve as a protective factor against suicidal thought. Based on the results, counselors such as case manager as well as social workers should consider the importance of understanding and using social support system for suicidal thought of the public officers in charge of social welfare. Finally, these findings are discussed in terms of social work practices and social policies.