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Gun control and suicide: The impact of state firearm regulations, 1995–2004

Author

Listed:
  • Katherine Hempstead

    (The Center for State Health Policy Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey)

  • Antonio Rodríguez

    (School of Public Health, Department of Health Services Research, University of Aarhus)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Katherine Hempstead & Antonio Rodríguez, 2009. "Gun control and suicide: The impact of state firearm regulations, 1995–2004," Development Research Working Paper Series 17/2009, Institute for Advanced Development Studies.
    • Handle: RePEc:adv:wpaper:200917
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    File URL: http://www.inesad.edu.bo/pdf/wp17_2009.pdf
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    suicide; guns; state regulations; panel data;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • I18 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Health - - - Government Policy; Regulation; Public Health

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