This study included 102 adolescents (suicidal & nonsuicidal inpatients, & a control group) & investigated the relationship between suicidal behaviour & aspects of bodily perception & parental care. It was hypothesized that suicidal adolescents would have higher tactile sensation thresholds, & more negative body attitudes & experiences; & report less parental care, lower positive & higher negative parental touch, & higher parental maltreatment. These hypotheses were confirmed & the role of negative bodily self in suicidal behaviour is proposed & discussed. (54 refs)