The History and Theories of Suicide

This chapter examines history and theories of suicide from the early modern period to the present. It examines changes in suicide practices, methods, and motivations. The suicides which occur in America today are consistent with those that occurred in the past. The historical focus will be on the peoples of North America who are of Native American, European, and African for the trends established there. Additionally, theories about who commits suicide and why are explained to establish the current state of the field of suicidology.