Testing the "Natural Rate of Suicide" Hypothesis

Matti Virén

No 185, Discussion Papers from VATT Institute for Economic Research

Abstract: This paper analyses the economic determinants of suicide. More specifically, we test the hypothesis that suicide is related to shocks or news concerning income growth. Testing is based on an error correction model of suicide in which the long-run part takes into account various demographic and structural variables. Empirical analysis is based on Finnish time series data covering the period 1878 - 1994. Some cross-country data are also used. The empirical results strongly support the "natural rate" hypothesis.

Keywords: Suicide, cyclical movements, economic behaviour, International comparisons, Kansainväliset vertailut, Taxation and Social Transfers, Julkisen talouden rahoitus ja tulonsiirrot, A120 - Relation of Economics to Other Disciplines, C320 - Econometric Methods: Multiple/Simultaneous Equation Models; Multiple Variables: Time-Series Models, D100 - Household Behavior: General, I310 - General Welfare; Basic Needs; Living Standards; Quality of Life; Happiness, J170 - Value of Life; Foregone Income, (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 1998
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