Psychological Vulnerability and Strength in Tribals of North-East India: Exploring the Interplay of Resilience, Gender, and Ethnicity

Abstract

Suicide remains a significant public health concern in India, with Tripura reporting one of the highest suicide rates in the Northeast. This study explores the role of resilience as a protective factor against suicidal ideation among two indigenous tribal communities in Tripura—the Chakma and Reang—who face unique socio-cultural and economic challenges. Using a cross-sectional design, data were collected from 150 young adults (ages 20–35), equally distributed across gender and tribe, using standardized instruments including the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS) and the Beck Scale for Suicidal Ideation (BSS). Findings revealed that Chakma individuals exhibited significantly higher resilience and lower suicidal ideation compared to their Reang counterparts. Gender differences were also significant, with males demonstrating greater resilience and females reporting higher levels of suicidal ideation. A strong negative correlation was observed between resilience and suicidal ideation across all subgroups, particularly among Reang males. These results underscore the critical importance of culturally sensitive and gender-responsive mental health interventions. The study highlights the need to strengthen community-based resilience mechanisms rooted in indigenous spirituality, cultural identity, and collective coping practices to effectively reduce suicide risk in marginalized populations.