Investigating the Role of Chronotype in Impulsivity and Suicidal Ideation Among Soldiers

Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of chronotype on impulsivity and suicidal tendencies among soldiers.

Methods: This study employed a cross sectional design. The statistical sample consisted of active soldiers aged 18 to 25 from various branches of the military. A total of 304 eligible participants were selected through convenient sampling. Data were collected using self-report questionnaires, including the reduced Morningness-Eveningness Questionnaire (rMEQ), the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale-11 (BIS-11), and the Beck Suicidal Ideation Questionnaire (BSSI). The research findings were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and the Bonferroni post hoc test.

Results: The results indicated that participants exhibited moderate levels of impulsivity. Significant differences were found in impulsivity and its dimensions based on chronotype , with eveningness types displaying higher levels of non-planning impulsiveness, motor impulsiveness, and cognitive impulsiveness, as well as total impulsivity and suicidal ideation compared to intermediate and morningness types (p < 0.001). However, no significant differences were observed between intermediate and morningness chronotypes in these measures (p > 0.05).

Discussion and Conclusion: The findings suggest that soldiers with an eveningness chronotype are more prone to impulsivity and suicidal tendencies, highlighting the importance of chronotype in mental health outcomes among military personnel. Further research is needed to explore underlying mechanisms and additional influencing factors.