earticle

영어

This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing suicidal ideation among underutilized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic, using the stress process model as a framework. Data from 717 underutilized adults in South Korea were purposively sampled through an online survey and analyzed using multiple logistic regression to examine the sequential impact of labor underutilization context, cognitive appraisal, negative life experiences during the pandemic, psychological factors (such as depression and embitterment), and coping resources. The analysis showed that 30.7% of respondents reported suicidal ideation. Elevated levels of depression and embitterment were significantly associated with suicidal ideation, with embitterment showing a stronger and relatively independent association. Additionally, more negative life events, perceived difficulty in reemployment, and low self-efficacy were also associated with a heightened risk of suicidal ideation. Our study highlights the importance of effective emotion and stress management strategies to reduce suicide risk among the unemployed, taking a broader perspective on labor underutilization.