Classic studies of written suicide notes have sought to develop criteria for discriminating genuine from simulated notes. In this article, the authors provide a method of discourse analysis and apply this method to the discrimination of genuine from simulated notes used in previous studies. Reports of significant differences among language measures as well as the results of a multiple discriminant analysis using the discourse analysis are reported. In addition, a language profile of the suicidal individual is given along with suggestions for research and clinical use of the method.

Discourse analysis is a fundamental concern for the study of human communication, accessible through an analysis of language behavior. A theoretic basis is provided for eight variable classes identified by Syntactic Language Computer Analysis (SLCA-111). Numerous empirical studies support its utility as an indicator of perception and cognition. Issues are raised regarding the role of language research in communication. Emphasis is placed on treatment of language as a behavioral indicator of experience, fluctuating as a barometer of social roles, psychological states, communication disorders, and communication mode.We believe that language behavior can best be viewed systemically (Rapaport, 1969) as interdependent with perception and cognition, as a symbolic identifier or marker of discriminable elements and their relations perceived to exist in the real or imaginary environment of a living organism. It may be that language behavior is best conceived as a barometer of experience. Whether language behavior is the effect of cognition or environment is difficult to assess. The complexity of human behavior, and, in particular, language, suggests that causal models may retard rather than advance research (Hawes, 1975). The interactive relations between perception and the cognitive processes of a living organism change as a product of experience, and such changes ought to be "mirrored" in language behavior over a life span. The argument here is for a developmental theory of language behavior, systemically expressed in ways which demonstrate changes in cognitive and perceptual states over time. Such a position differs fundamentally from the static perspective of Chomsky (1975), and methodologically from

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Abstract.The way in which Japan adopted methods and practices related to celebrations of seasonally based holidays and festivals provides an interesting study in how one culture may incorporate and modify the astronomically related practices of another. This article explores this process by looking at: (1) astronomical bases of seasonal celebration in Japan, (2) Japanese values and adaptations of imported icons and practices, (3) changes in celebratory practice due to adoption of 'Western' methods, and (4) observation in modern Japan.