An Application of Durkheim’s Theory of Suicide to Prison Suicide Rates in the United States

Durkheim suggested that the societal rate of suicide might be explained by factors such as marriage, divorce, & birth rates. The current study examined male prison suicide rates & rates for men in the total population in the United States. It was found that variables based on Durkheim’s theory of suicide explained prison rates better than rates for the total population. Possible reasons for these findings are discussed. (24 refs)