Outlines some concepts evolved from a study of bereaved families. The manner in which a family incorporates societal values was found to be important; suicide caused great shame & guilt especially to those families accustomed to expert advice & support. Also important was how emotions might be expressed, & the role the deceased had in the family system; death of a suicide attempter or alcoholic may leave the role of “problem person” to be filled by other family memers. (RM)