Effects of Socioeconomic Factors on Secular Trends in Suicide in Japan, 1953-86

The effects of socioeconomic factors on secular trends in suicide rates in Japan for the periods 1953-72 & 1973-86 were investigated using 12 socioeconomic indicators. Multiple regression analysis showed that the socioeconomic indicators affecting suicide rates were not identical in the 2 periods. The changes reflect the socioeconomic changes in industrial structure in Japan in transition from an industrial to a service economy. (18 refs.)