Seasonal Births, Academic Achievement & Psychopathology (Suicide & Homicide): A Regional Analysis

Previous studies suggested a link between season of birth & intellectual performance, health & psychopathology. In this preliminary study, the May/November birth ratio of each continental US state was calculated for 1970-1974. They varied with latitude (higher ratios in the north) & altitude but not longitude. Ratios correlated significantly with mean Scholastic Aptitude Test scores for 1972-73 (Verbal r=0.30 & math r=0.33) & with 1972 homicide rates (r=-0.66) but not with 1972 suicide rates (r=0.11). (KM)