The use of log-linear models for investigating differential item functioning (DIF) associated with examinee/respondent background characteristics was examined. The Likert-type items used in this study were drawn from a 36-item self-report measure--the Suicide Probability Scale. Specifically, log-linear models were used to investigate whether contingency tables for ethnicity (55 African Americans, 186 Anglo Americans, and 189 Hispanic Americans) or gender (332 males and 627 females) by item response by mental health status suggested evidence of an interaction between the background variable and item response. The investigation focused on a set of 35 Likert-type items that measure subjective well- being and coping behavior. Several log-linear models were fit to the data, and rationale for the composition of the various models is discussed. Among tables where a statistically significant ethnicity by item response interaction or a gender by item response interaction was found, the technique of proportional standardization to unity was used to plot response rates according to ethnic and gender subgroups. Plots show that most of the interaction comes from respondents whose mental health status is diminished. In general, log-linear models were found useful for investigating DIF. Two tables and 24 graphs present study data. (Author/SLD)