Women and Assisted Suicide: Exposing the Gender Vulnerability to Acquiescent Death

Abstract

Newer concepts of jurisprudence such as the "right to die," or the "right not to suffer" may negatively affect those dealing with gender related trauma. The biological and demographical profiles of males and females reveals myriad differences which shape behavior in dealing with trauma and illness. The result may be a distortion of reality, doom mentality, depression, even ultimate despair. This article examines the women who were assisted in their suicides by Dr. Jack Kevorkian, and analyzes a growing vulnerability among certain women to acquiesent suicide, and ultimately highlights women's susceptibility to euthanasia.

Economic, education and marital status, along with health care, and biological and emotional factors are all considered in an analysis of these specific suicides. The analysis offers some alarming evidence that must be considered in the jurisprudence of the right to die in light of a gender analysis. It suggests empowerment of individuals through strong families, and a strong and caring society to avoid ultimate victimization for those most vulnerable.