Supports the idea of suicidal behavior as an independent variable, which may explain or predict other aspects of one’s social, psychological & cultural condition. Suggests survival impulse is behind the ambiguity in a self-destructive act. Discusses connections between these behaviors, ranging from ideation to completed suicide; problems of deciding what behaviors to label as suicidal; & classifying suicidal behaviors. A Calgary study shows 6 distinct groups of completed suicides. (KM)