Generational Analyses of Suicide: Baby Boomers and 13ers

"Generational analysis" is proposed that would consider actual cohort or generational suicide risk. Personality characteristics of different generations are discussed as they may affect suicide, its prevention, and intervention. In addition, annual suicide data for 1968-1991 are presented for the "Boom" generation (born 1943-1960) and for the young group of Americans called 13ers (the 13th generation of Americans; born 1961-1981). Results indicate that Boomers are presently 1 of every 3 suicides and 1 of every 4 Americans, while 13ers are 1 of 4 suicides and 1 of 3 in the population. Consistent with previous cohort analysis studies, these two cohorts are at greater risk than earlier generations at the same chronological age, with 13ers higher than Boomers for the ages they have thus far attained. It is recommended that researchers, theorists, and mental health professionals consider generational issues, and that suicidology expand its attention to the life cycles of generations.