Fifteen rating scales for the estimation of suicide risk are reviewed. The report focuses on methods of scale development & validation. Problems of predictive accuracy, & ways of improving the prediction of suicidal behaviour are discussed. The authors conclude from their review that well-constructed risk scales are capable of identifying persons with a high probability of future suicide. Although the accuracy of prediction is not satisfactory from a statistical point of view, risk scales may be helpful in clinical management. (36 refs.)