Macro Socioeconomic Determinants of Suicide in Iran: A Time Series Study during 1991-2023

Maryam Mokhtari; Siroos Ahmadi

doi:10.18502/ijph.v54i8.19587

Maryam Mokhtari Department of Sociology, School of Human Sciences, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran
Siroos Ahmadi Department of Sociology, School of Human Sciences, Yasouj University, Yasouj, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijph.v54i8.19587

Keywords: Suicide; Socioeconomic determinants; Time series; Iran

Abstract

Background: Although suicide is ultimately committed by individuals, it is influenced by a wide range of factors, from micro to macro levels.

Methods: This time-series research examines the relationship between macro socioeconomic variables and the suicide rate from 1991 to 2023. The data were collected from the Statistical Center of Iran (SCI), the Central Bank of Iran (CBI), and the World Bank (WB). Time series charts were used to describe the data, and an autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model was employed for examining the relationship among variables using the Microfit 5 software.

Results: The results indicate a significant negative relationship between inflation, urban population, and women's participation in the labor force with suicide, but a significant positive relationship between mobile phone penetration and labor force participation with suicide rate. Furthermore, literacy and GDP per capita were not associated with the suicide rate.

Conclusion: Macro socioeconomic indicators impact on suicide rates. By better understanding the mechanism of this impact and appropriate planning, suicide rates can be reduced.