Assesses the generality and strength of nonclinical youths' (N=569) perceptions of the harmfulness and lethality of acetaminophen in overdose. Findings indicate that adolescents have ready access to acetaminophen and use it in suicide attempts but underestimate its potential for toxicity, lacking knowledge regarding side effects of overdose. (RJM)

Presents a case study on a 19-year-old seaman, without previous psychiatric difficulty, who ingested fifty 500 mg tablets of acetaminophen so as to avoid a frightening event. Two medical doctors comment on the case and suggest appropriate reactions to such events. Includes a discussion on terminology involving the word "suicide." (RJM)