Coping Failure, Senescence, Gene Expression, and Suicide (IN: Suicide and Self-Damaging Behavior: a Sociobiological Perspective)

This chapter discusses genetic considerations as to why suicide occurs, and delves specifically into aging, senescence & reproductive related reasons. If a “suicide” gene expressed itself in old age, for example, then the gene would not be eliminated. The Medawar-Williams hypothesis, which suggests that behavioral (i.e. suicide) as well as physiological failures occur as we age to promote death, is explained. Genetic reasons for suicide are suggested (e.g. links between genetics & depression).