Compared 29 acutely depressed women & 29 matched suicide attempters using extensive sociodemographic, historical & clinical information. Manifest hostility emerged as an important distinguishing characteristic of the suicide attempters, who had pervasive & overtly hostile relationships, a poor long-term work history, antisocial behavior & were demanding & hostile during psychiatric interview. Depressives were compliant at interview. Discusses theoretical & clinical implications. (33 ref)