Does Culture Make a Difference? Racial/Ethnic Patterns of Completed Suicide in San Francisco, CA 1987-1996 and Clinical Applications

Comparisons of rates across race & gender showed that both Caucasian men & women had the highest rates during 1987-96 in San Francisco, California. Significant differences were found when ethnic groups were compared across age, gender & methods, except for suicide by firearms. Differences & similarities are illustrated by comparing Caucasian & Asian patterns of suicide. A framework relating cultural variables to predisposing client variables is suggested for clinicians & researchers. (50 refs.)