The data in this analysis reflect the striking contrast in age distribution in the suicide patterns of Whites and Blacks. Whereas White suicide increases in direct relation with advancing chronological age, suicide among Blacks reaches its peak in the youthful years. Black men in their twenties represent the most suicide-prone group. (Author)

As a result of the emphasis given to the "black perspective" since the late 1960s, there has been a proliferation of research and writing on the black experience by black social scientists. However, a coherent and integrated body of knowledge on the nature of the black experience has yet to be established. There has been no attempt to develop a…

The findings of a national study of black suicide are reported in this paper. A suitable explanation is sought for the increasing suicide rate among young blacks. The possibility of a link between suicide and the weakening of black community and family ties is explored. Specifically, the isolating effects of inmigration and living alone are…

In the past decade, the suicide rate among young blacks has risen to the point where it is nearly as high as that of their white peers. There is, however, a striking contrast in age distribution in the suicide patterns of whites and blacks. Whereas white suicide increases in direct relation with advancing chronological age, suicide among black…

This paper has two purposes: (1) to develop a theoretical model of suicide, based on the previous work of Henry and Short, and (2) to apply that model in the study of Black suicides in Orleans Parish, Louisiana. (Author)

Although statistical patterns associated with suicide suggest that blacks should be the least likely to commit suicide, black men between the ages of 18-25 do not conform to this pattern. The suicide rate for black males in this age group, which approximates and sometimes surpasses the rate for their white male cohorts, is more than three times…

This paper develops a theoretical model of sucide, based on the theory of "external restraints" proposed by previous researchers, A.F. Henry and J.F. Short, Jr., and applies the model to a study of black suicides in Orleans Parish, Louisiana. The focus of the study is on the complexity of relationships between dimensions of black suicide…

Examines suicide rates among Blacks and explores theories that attempt to explain this phenomenon. Suggests that increased incidence of suicide among young Blacks is due to decreased Black solidarity because of stresses from overt racism, and discusses intervention strategies for suicide prevention and therapy that emphasize strengthened social…

Changes in the direction and magnitude of adult black suicide rates in large metropolitan centers of the United States are examined in this paper. The data presented are primarily from Standard Metropolitan Statistical Areas (SMSAs) with 100,000 or more black residents and indicate that (1) the gap between the suicide rates of black males and…

Examines suicide statistics among Blacks, particularly males. Holds that high suicide rates for Black males are related to low self-image, resulting from various socioeconomic barriers. Recommends community prevention programs and community support systems as suicide deterrents. (DA)