Suicide and Homicide: a Test of a Role Theory of Destructive Behavior

Reviews social integration theory, social loss theory, frustration-aggression theory, & role theory. A synthesizing theory emphasising the process of reciprocity & unreciprocity in role playing is advanced & tested by the study of 98 male completed suicides & 76 male psychiatric patients. Suicide victims tended to experience more role reciprocity (mutual facilitation of role playing), & homicide offenders more unreciprocity. (30 refs.) (RM)