Document Type

Dissertation

First Faculty Advisor

Bates, Laurie

Economics; Suicide; Panal data; 2000-2010 states

This study uses economic theory to investigate the impact of socioeconomic factors on the

suicide rate in the United States. Using a utility maximization framework based on

Hamermesh and Soss’ 1974 model, a panel data set from 2000-2010 is constructed for the 50

states and District of Columbia. This research adds to the literature in the field by focusing on

the more recent past and providing additional variables consistent with today’s challenges.

The results from the multiple regression analysis can be used to advocate policies that may

reduce the suicide rate in the future.

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