After a major life disruption, which term describes the breakdown of social norms?

• A. Phased Retirement
• B. Egoistic Suicide
• C. Suicide
• D. Anomic Suicide

Answer: (D)

Anomic suicide arises when social norms break down after a major life disruption. When a sudden upheaval—such as economic collapse, job loss, or a drastic change in life status—shatters the usual rules people rely on to guide their behavior, individuals can feel a sense of normlessness and lack of direction. That erosion of shared expectations and structure increases the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions during the transition period.

Phased retirement is about gradually winding down work and doesn’t involve a breakdown of norms. Suicide, while the broader act, doesn’t specify the mechanism. Egoistic suicide relates to not feeling integrated into society, rather than norms becoming unclear due to upheaval.