Suicide Contagion (IN: Review of Suicidology, 1997, edited by R W Maris, M M Silverman & S S Canetto)

This chapter reviews 2 distinct traditions within the literature on suicide contagion among adolescents & adults with a focus on studies published since 1986. The discussion of cluster suicides highlights the methodological & qualitative shift from descriptive to inferential studies. The section on media portrayals includes a discussion of fictional & nonfictional materials. The role of “how-to” manuals in subsequent suicidal behaviour is examined. Alternative research strategies are discussed.