This introductory chapter reviews many aspects of suicide. Definitions of self-destructive behaviors (e.g. attempted suicide, suicidal gestures) & characteristics of typical suicidal persons are given. The etiology of suicide, ambivalence & its relation to suicide, the illogic of the suicidal mind, & the involvment of significant others are discussed. Losses involving self-image & significant others, & sudden & successive losses are presented in relation to suicide. (CM)