A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of character disturbances & depression on the suicidal gestures of basic trainees. Subjects were 30 suicidal & 30 non-suicidal trainees, who completed information questionnaires, the WAIS & MMPI. The suicidals displayed more depression, had less favorable relationships with training instructors. In contrast with earlier studies, the subject’s suicidal behavior was more closely related to depression & low self-esteem than to characterological traits.