"Cognitive-behavioral therapies (CBTs) have long since exited the ranks of "new" or "revolutionary" psychotherapies and are now solidly positioned in the front ranks of mainstream therapeutic approaches. This position has been earned through rigorous and systematic approaches to development by well-respected theorists, researchers, and clinicians worldwide. In a recent summary statement, Prochaska and Norcross (2003) described CBTs as "the fastest growing and most heavily researched orientations on the contemporary scene," commenting further that "if we were forced to purchase stock in any of the psychotherapy systems, Beck's cognitive therapy would be the blue-chip growth selection for the next five years" (p. 369). The present volume is an attempt to bring together for the first time the work of leading theorists and researchers exploring various facets of cognition and their influence on the experience of suicidal individuals. The book's purpose is to form a basis for synthesizing this disparate body of work and to understand its implications for the development of CBT strategies, while also illuminating areas in which the research falls short and is in need of further expansion. In closing, a disclaimer is in order: The concentration here on cognitive content and processes is offered in service of advancing cognitive therapeutic interventions and should not be viewed as denying or minimizing the multifactorial nature of suicide, including biological, developmental, social, and cultural influences. Recent advances have shown clearly that dichotomous thinking (e.g., nature vs. nurture) has no place in the study of suicide; an integrative approach is clearly more appropriate. With this book the stage has set for an integrative approach to the study of cognition and suicide"--Introduction. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved)