Suicide, Adulthood (IN: Encyclopedia of Primary Prevention and Health Promotion, edited by M Bloom and Gullotta)

This encyclopedia entry discusses & defines the problem of suicide in adults aged 20-64. Suicide rates & related statistics for this age group are presented. Relevant theories & important research into causes of suicide are discussed, as are the ethical issues & methodological challenges of such work. Strategies for prevention are described in terms of levels of efficacy: those that do work, those that might work, & those that do not work. Current issues in suicidology, such as lack of conclusive research & debate over the efficacy of prevention programs, are also discussed. (17 refs)