Admissions, aged 6 to 12 years, admitted to an American psychiatric hospital unit were evaluated for suicidal potential, (N=58), by specially constructed scales. Factors significantly correlating with suicidal behaviour were depression, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, the wish to die, preoccupations with death, the concept that death is temporary and pleasant, and severe depression and suicidal behaviour in the parents. (GAW)