This study examines the families-of-origin of suicidal females, with particular focus on their parents. The data are drawn from 50 female suicide attempters & include life history materials, diaries & letters, interviews with therapists, & material from group counseling sessions. 5 parental characteristics are identified & described: non-nurturing parents, absent parents, abusive parents, mentally ill parents, & alcoholic parents. These characteristics are described & exmples presented.(NBB)