States With "Cultures of Honor"

Aug. 15, 2011— -- Whites living in certain states might be more likely to die from accidents because these states have a so-called "honor culture," according to new studies published in the journal Social Psychological and Personality Science. In an honor culture, there is a strong emphasis on preserving a person's reputation.

Researchers from the University of Oklahoma found that white men and women living in southern and western states are more likely to engage in risky behavior that leads to accidental death. Based on previous research on the honor culture, the authors say, the District of Columbia and the following states are considered honor states:

Alabama

Arkansas

Arizona

California

Colorado

Delaware

Florida

Georgia

Idaho

Kentucky

Louisiana

Maryland

Mississippi

Montana

Nevada

New Mexico

North Carolina

Oklahoma

Oregon

South Carolina

Tennessee

Texas

Utah

Virginia

Washington

West Virginia

Wyoming