Year: 2008 Source: Suicide and Life-Threatening Behavior, v.38, no.2, (April 2008), p.229-244 SIEC No: 20080630

The authors attempted to systematize the existing literature investigating the relationship between religion/spirituality & suicide. After an overview of the attitudes of the dominant religions toward suicide, the three main theories that have speculated regarding the link between religion & suicide are presented: integration theory (Durkheim), religious commitment theory (Stack, Stark), & network theory (Pescosolido & Georgianna). Next, studies on religion/spirituality are reported keeping the suicidal path as a reference. Studies presenting indications of religious beliefs as a possible risk factor are presented. The last section reviews possible intervention strategies for suicidal patients & survivors. (133 refs.)