Cause-specific mortality patterns, by occupation, were examined among Rhode Island residents who died during the period 1968-78, using the age-standardized proportionate mortality ratio (PMR) method. A noteworthy finding was an elevated PMR for both male & female social workers. This is the 1st report of a high risk of suicide among social workers. Due to the relatively small numbers of subjects & limitations of data & methods used, it is recommended that further study be done. (16 refs.)