This paper describes a particular family dynamics involved in suicidal behaviours of adolescents. Certain family situations create a split between some family members & the suicidal adolescent to the point of total estrangement. The adolescent copes with this split by forming intrapsychic splits, including a suicidal self & nonsuicidal self, through dissociation. This process peaks in the suicidal behaviour itself. The therapeutic principles implied by this model are presented.