Durkheim’s theory of suicide has a positive correlation with suicidal rates in the US, especially among men and young people. There are suggestions that Durkheim’s study of death is the paradigmatic example of how a sociologist should connect theory and research (Merton, 1968). Indeed, Durkheim makes it clear that his study not only to contribute to the understanding of a particular social problem but also to serve as an example of his new sociological method. As a sociologist, Durkheim’s theory of suicide was not concerned with studying why any specific individual committed suicide. Psychological or biological factors may explain why a particular individual in a group commits suicide. Still, Durkheim assumed that only social facts could tell why one group had a higher rate of death than did another. Durkheim’s study of suicide points to the sociological factors of suicide in the US among young people.
more information on Durkheim’s theory of suicide
SUICIDAL RATES IN US AMONG MEN AND YOUTH
Men have historically died by suicide more frequently than women, and that’s still true. As of 2017, the suicidal rates in the US among men were more than three times higher than the female rate. But female suicide rates are rising more quickly by 53% since 1999, compared to 26% for men, and the gap is narrowing. For both genders, suicide rates are highest among American Indians and Alaska natives, and this is a result of the sociological factors of suicide in the US. People ages 45 to 64 reports the highest rates of suicide. Suicidal rates are rising more rapidly among boys and girls ages 10 to 14 than in any other age group Durkheim’s theory of suicide and suicidal rates in the US points to the Youth suicide becoming an especially pressing problem
More information on suicidal rates in the US among men and youth
SOCIOLOGICAL FACTORS OF SUICIDE IN THE US AND DURKHEIM’S THEORY
Psychological and biological factors impact sociocultural factors, and they help in understanding the sociological factors of suicide in the US. A person with a deregulated HPA axis and an impulsive/aggressive temperament may look for confirming evidence. They may begin acting in aggressive and self-destructive ways. This behaviour then alienates friends, family, and colleagues who otherwise might help them through difficult times. This contributes to the suicidal rates in the US. The socio-cultural factors that affect suicide rates operate at many different levels. The degree to which someone’s surroundings bring about a positive or negative influence depends on individual factors. The factors include demographic characteristics, life stressors, coping skills, and biological dimensions. Durkheim’s theory of suicide and the current suicidal rates bests explain this phenomenon. They also include whether an individual’s family, community, and country are supportive or stressful.
more information on sociological factors of suicide in the US
