This paper focuses on the issue of intention, which is identified as an essential aspect of any definition of suicide & suicidal behaviour primarily because of its distinction from accidental behaviour. The distinction between the retrospective perspective of motives versus the prospective perspective of intentions is highlighted. The author argues the latter is more closely related to suicidal behaviour. There is a need for sound research to clarify the roles of intentions in order to better understand suicide & attempted suicide. (29 refs.)