The upward trend of the suicide rate beyween 1975-82 in Belgium is investigated. A significant differentiation according to social characteristics such as sex, age, & marital status can be observed. As a result, traditional constant rates of suicide by sex, age & marital status were altered. Part 1 is a quantitative analysis of the recent evolution of the suicide rate in Belgium. Part 2 evaluates the possible consequences of this situation for theory & society. 9 refs.