In a study of suicide in Jordan from 1980-85, there were 219 suicides (2.1/100,000). The peak rate was found in the age group 15-34 years. Nearly 2/3 of males who committed suicide were single, unlike females. Over 1/2 of the males were either unemployed &/or unskilled manual workers & over 2/3 of the females were either housewives &/or students. Nearly 2/3 of this population had previous psychiatric treatment. Violent means of suicide were frequently used. Sociocultural factors are discussed.