The assoc btwn attempted parental suicide & child abuse was examined in 114 cases. The risk was greatly increased in attempted suicide mothers compared to both similar mothers at risk for depression & general population control mothers. Risk of child abuse was found in 29.8% of attempters. No major difference was found in the attempted suicide mothers whose children were at risk & those whose children were not. During the hospital assessment, enquiry into parent-child relationship is essential.