Considering Cultural Beliefs and Behaviors in the Study of Suicide (IN: Review of Suicidology, 2000, edited by R W Maris, S S Canetto, et al)

In this chapter, the author presents the broad findings of a study on suicide in San Francisco, 1987-1996, to illustrate some of the similarities & differences among racial/cultural/ethnic groups. The variation in the underlying meanings of completed suicide are then illustrated by discussing the beliefs & behaviours of many (not all) Chinese people. The chapter concludes with some observations that may be helpful to the clinician. (33 refs.)