Abstract

The Impact of Epidemic, War, Prohibition and Media on Suicide: United States, 1910-1920

Wasserman I M

Year: 1992 Source: Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, v. 22, no. 2 (Summer 1992), p.240-254 SIEC No: 19920049

This study attempts to determine the impact of World War I, the Great Influenza Epidemic & alcohol prohibition on suicidal behavior from 1910-1920. The monthly population of the United States is estimated, & monthly suicide & mortality rates are computed. The author concludes that World War I did not influence suicide, the Great Influenza Epidemic caused it to increase, & the continuing decline in alcohol consumption lowered national rates. (VM)