Suicide is a tragedy. The search to learn more about the motivations and behaviors that lead to suicide in order to prevent it is growing. The present research will focus on two theories of suicide developed by evolutionary psychologists. One is the Altruistic Suicide Hypothesis (ALH), which states that suicidal ideation and completion results from a perceived feeling of burdensomeness to kin, and a perception of low reproduction value (ability to have children). The present research will also look at Life History Theory (LHT), which is an evolutionary theory that states those with poor environments adapt a faster life strategy marked by early onset of puberty and higher number of births, and at religious strain. We expect correlations between LHT and ALH such that fast life strategists at a greater risk for suicide, as will those with greater stress in their relationship with their religion. We will use several published measures, including for suicidality, LHT, religious strain, burdensomeness, and reproductive value. Also, we will investigate another theory of suicide, the Parasite Manipulation Hypothesis, which suggests that the parasite toxoplasmosa gondii may affect the human brain in ways that alter behavior and increase the risk for suicide. Studies have shown a higher infection of T. gondii in those with schizophrenia and other mental disorders. Currently there are no measures that calculate risk of T. gondii contraction, so we have made one for this research. Once all data is collected, multiple regression will beused to find the best predictors of suicide.
