1. Gun control and suicide: The impact of state firearm regulations, 1995–2004
- Author:
- Katherine Hempstead and Antonio Rodríguez Andrés
- Publication Date:
- 12-2009
- Content Type:
- Working Paper
- Institution:
- Institute for Advanced Development Studies (INESAD)
- Abstract:
- Suicide is a major cause of preventable death. Restricting access to lethal means has been identified as an effective approach to suicide prevention, and firearms regulations are one way to reduce gun availability. This study examines the relationship between state firearms regulations and suicide among males, using negative binomial regression and state panel data for the years 1995–2004. Results suggest that firearms regulations which function to reduce overall gun availability have a significant deterrent effect on suicide, while prohibited persons categories have less of an effect. Overall, the results suggest that gun control measures such as permit and licensing requirements might have public health benefits.
- Topic:
- Regulation, Mental Health, Public Health, Data, Suicide, and Guns
- Political Geography:
- South America and Bolivia