The cultural considerations are presented within a transactional cognitive-phenomenological framework. Certain American Indian beliefs and values associated with death are discussed. This cultural attitude is significant because research studies have shown that those who fear death less are more serious about acting on their suicidal desires. When young Indian adolescents are compared with those of the dominant culture, it becomes clear that the Indian youths experience more problems of ambiguity of identity, frequency of loss, and pervasiveness of hardship. A transactional model of coping often helps Indian adolescents to understand and regulate their own behavior. It is suggested that ongoing cognitive, peer, and social skills training be adapted to the Indian culture and integrated into school curricula. 58 references.