Holinger et al (1988) reported that the suicide rate of 15-24 year olds in the USA from 1956-77 was positively related to their proportion in the population. The present study was done to check the cross-national reliability of this cohort effect by using Japanese data for 1961-79. Results of the present data did not replicate the results reported by Holinger & judgements about the cross-national reliability of Holinger’s cohort effect must await further research. (2 refs.)