Durkheim

Durkheim’s Four Types of Suicide

Anomic

Egoistic

Anomic Suicide

Altruistic

Fatalistic

Egoistic Suicide

Egoistic suicide occurs when an individual feels detached from society due to weak social bonds. This type of suicide is often linked to feelings of loneliness, isolation, and a lack of purpose. Example: Individuals who are single, without children, or estranged from family and friends may feel disconnected from society.

Altruistic Suicide

Altruistic suicide happens when individuals are too integrated into their society or group. This extreme sense of belonging can lead individuals to sacrifice themselves for what they perceive to be the greater good. Example: Historical examples include soldiers who give their lives for their country or members of cults who commit suicide for a cause.

Fatalistic Suicide

Fatalistic suicide happens when an individual feels excessively regulated by oppressive societal rules, leading them to believe that suicide is their only escape from an oppressive environment. Example: Prisoners or individuals in highly controlled environments, such as authoritarian regimes, may feel hopeless due to the intense constraints on their freedom.

Anomic Suicide

Anomic suicide occurs when an individual’s relationship with society is disrupted due to a major life change, such as economic collapse, loss of employment, or a shift in personal status. The disconnection stems from a sudden breakdown of norms. Example: People who lose their jobs during an economic downturn, or individuals going through a divorce, may feel lost and without guidance.