Gun-control legislation and the impact on suicide

Author: Leenaars, A. A.
Publication: Crisis-the Journal of Crisis Intervention and Suicide Prevention
Topics: Age Group Gender International Legislation and Policy Prevention Suicide
Keywords: GUN control
Bibliographic information +

The author examines the efficacy of gun control laws in reducing suicide via restricting access to lethal means in a suicidal individual’s environment. Controlling for various socioeconomic factors, gun control laws in Canada, New Zealand, Australia, and the U.S. are found to decrease firearm suicide and overall suicide. Some findings suggest a stronger impact on suicides among women and younger people. The author concludes that gun control legislation is an effective public health strategy.