Suicide and Public Policy
Suicide and Public Policy
- Janelle StanleyJanelle StanleyColumbia University School of Social Work
- , and Sarah StroleSarah StroleColumbia University School of Social Work
Summary
The historical context of suicidal behavior and public policies addressing suicide arose simultaneously within the United States, and both reflect a culture of discrimination and economic disenfranchisement. Systems of oppression including anti-Black racism, restrictive immigration policy, displacement of American Indigenous communities, religious moralism, and the capitalist economic structure perpetuate high-risk categories of suicidality. Suicidal behavior, protective factors, and risk factors, including firearms, are examined in the context of twentieth and early twenty first century public policy. Recommendations for public policy will be discussed with consideration for policies that impact communities disproportionately and social work ethics, such as right to die laws and inconsistent standards of care.
Keywords
Subjects
- Ethics and Values
- Health Care and Illness
- Macro Practice
- Mental and Behavioral Health
- Race, Ethnicity, and Culture
- Social Justice and Human Rights
- Social Work Profession
