reverse lights problem??

[ADRNLN]

Hi, all--

Maybe someone has an answer, or maybe this is just another one of those mysteries we all run into. When the hand brake is engaged, and I shift into reverse, the back-up lights (white) come on normally. If I release the handbrake, the back-up lights go out... even though the car is still in reverse. This doesn't sound right... any ideas?? (Car in question is my '87 Coupe.)

Thanks in advance,

--Steve