Changing Age Patterns of U.S. Male & Female Suicide Rates, 1934-1983

Changes in the age patterns of US male & female suicide rates from 1934-83 are examined using official data. Among whites, the age patterns of male & female suicide rates have become less concordant since about 1960. In contrast, the age patterns of nonwhite male & female suicide rates have become more concordant since the mid-50’s. A review of sociological theories of suicide identifies problems in accounting for such changes – problems stemming in part from a theoretical emphasis on cross-sectional relations.