When film legend Marilyn Monroe committed suicide, demographers noted a sharp increase in suicide rates in the following month. Which theory would best explain the increase in rates?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sharp increase in suicide rates following Marilyn Monroe's suicide is likely due to the contagion effect, where individuals who are vulnerable to suicidal thoughts are influenced to take their own lives after being exposed to news or knowledge of a suicide.

When Film Legend Marilyn Monroe Committed Suicide, Demographers Noted a Sharp