A replication of a cross-national study of the relationship between elderly suicide rates and urbanization

Abstract

Modernization is a social and economic process consisting of three interrelated processes of industrialization, urbanization and secularization. The process of industrialization may provide greater economic opportunities in urban areas and facilitate migration of people from rural to urban areas. This process of urbanization may lead to a weakening of ties with family, friends, local religious institutions and original place of residence. Difficulties in adjusting to the new urban environment may increase the risk of suicide and see a rise in suicide rates (Stack, 2000).