Problem 2 - Abnormal Psychology: An Integrative Approach

Question

Match each of the following summaries with the correct suicide type, choosing from (a) altruistic, (b) egoistic, (c) anomic, and (d) fatalistic. Sam killed himself while a prisoner of war in Vietnam. _______________

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Fatalistic suicide.

Step 1: Understand the Context

First, analyze the situation described in the summary. In this case, Sam killed himself while being a prisoner of war in Vietnam. This context implies he was in a situation where he had no control over his life and faced extreme oppression.

Step 2: Recall Suicide Types Descriptions

Recall the definitions of the four suicide types: (a) Altruistic: Resulting from a high integration into a group's beliefs. (b) Egoistic: Due to a lack of integration within a group or society. (c) Anomic: Results from a disconnection during societal disruptions or changes. (d) Fatalistic: Caused by excessive control or oppression, leading to feelings of despair.

Step 3: Match the Summary with the Correct Type

Based on the definitions and the context given, 'fatalistic suicide' occurs under excessive regulation or oppressive environments, often with no hope of freedom. The situation of being a prisoner of war aligns with this type, where individuals are excessively controlled.

Key Concepts

Altruistic Suicide

Altruistic suicide happens when an individual is deeply integrated into a group, often placing the group's values above their own life. Such individuals may choose to sacrifice themselves for a perceived greater good, as their self-worth is primarily defined by their role in this collective.
For instance, in certain cultures or historical contexts, individuals might willingly end their lives for a military cause, political ideology, or religious belief.

• These individuals often have strong ties to their group.
• The group's norms and expectations heavily influence their actions.

This type of suicide is often seen in societies with strong collectivist values, where personal identity is subordinate to societal loyalty.

Egoistic Suicide

Egoistic suicide occurs when a person feels isolated or disconnected from society. This feeling of alienation stems from a lack of integration into social groups, leaving individuals without a sense of belonging or purpose.
It often affects people who are living alone, facing family estrangement, or experiencing social rejection.

• Individuals may feel lonely and misunderstood.
• It is common in societies where individualism is highly valued.

The absence of community support and meaningful social connections can lead to a profound sense of despair, prompting some to see suicide as their only solution.

Anomic Suicide

Anomic suicide is associated with societal upheavals or disruptions that leave individuals feeling lost and unstable. This type occurs during times of great social change, such as economic depressions, political revolutions, or sudden wealth.
When the structures that guide behavior are dismantled, individuals can experience disorientation and aimlessness.

• This is a result of a sudden shift in societal norms.
• It reflects a mismatch between expectations and reality.

The disappearance of societal stability makes it hard for people to navigate their lives, which may lead to taking drastic actions like suicide.

Fatalistic Suicide

Fatalistic suicide arises from situations of extreme regulation and oppressive circumstances, such as being a prisoner or under an authoritarian regime. Individuals in these scenarios often see no escape from their conditions, leading to feelings of hopelessness.
The pressures and controls placed upon them are excessive, stripping them of personal freedom and agency.

• Characterized by a sense of overwhelming oppression.
• Often involves individuals who are in environments they cannot change or escape from.

In such dire circumstances, individuals may see suicide as the only way to regain control over their destiny.