Chapter 1 - A Brief View on the Social History of Suicide

Summary

Suicide has long been a topic of social discourse, with pendulating views of the phenomenon. This chapter highlights how social, cultural, and religious views on the morality of suicide shifted over time and discusses today’s current understanding of suicide as a public health crisis. Early documentations of suicide highlight it as a means by which to avoid becoming a spoil of war or avoiding dishonor. With the rise of Christianity, suicide came to be viewed as a mortal sin, one that could result in the punishment of surviving family members. Perspectives on the morality of suicide have vacillated over time, with current times viewing suicide not as an issue of morality but as a public health issue. Despite years of suicide prevention efforts, suicide rates in the United States have generally remained stubborn. Given the complex nature of suicide, it will likely require integrated interventions and resources that cross clinical and community realms.