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Suicide and Western culture
Saxby Pridmore1, Milford McArthur
1Discipline of Psychiatry, University of Tasmania, Royal Hobart Hospital, Hobart, TAS, Australia. spridmore@iprimus.com.au
Summary
Western suicide and suicidal behavior have deep cultural roots, with similar precipitating circumstances and emotions observed in antiquity and modern times. Understanding these historical patterns is key to addressing contemporary suicidal behavior and promoting cultural change.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Cultural Studies
Background:
- Suicidal behavior is a complex phenomenon with potential cultural underpinnings.
- Understanding the historical context of suicide can offer insights into its persistence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the cultural origins and transmission of Western suicide and suicidal behavior.
- To compare historical and contemporary precipitating factors and emotions associated with suicide.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of prominent suicides from antiquity (mythical Greece-61 CE) and a recent period (1994-2008).
- Tabulation of precipitating circumstances and assessment of attendant emotions for historical and contemporary cases.
- Comparison of these factors with statements from individuals exhibiting suicidal behavior and examination of cultural transmission.
Main Results:
- Common precipitating circumstances (loss, disgrace, imprisonment) and negative emotions (shame, guilt, fear, anger, grief) were found in both historical periods.
- These factors align with those expressed by individuals demonstrating suicidal behavior.
- Evidence of these narratives and response models exists within Western cultural heritage (literature, visual arts).
Conclusions:
- Maladaptive response models to adverse circumstances, including suicide, are embedded in Western culture.
- Suicide as a response to specific circumstances and emotions has a history exceeding 2000 years.
- Cultural change is essential for minimizing suicide rates.
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