This study examined the realtionship between abuse & suicidal behaviours in a sample of 91 African-American women ages 40-64 years. 46 of the 91 women had engaged in suicidal behaviours at some point in their lives. 35 of the women reported some type of abuse in their history. The strongest relationship of victimization & suicide was found in women with histories of childhood physical abuse. It is suggested that future research in this area needs to involve the extended family. (32 refs.)