The second edition, as the previous edition, deals with evolutionary processes contributing to changing life patterns of American women; however, new portions relate to the acceleration of the trend. The new self-image of women cannot be understood if viewed as an isolated development but must be interpreted with a perspective view. Two inseparable concepts of relatively new development are the lack of coherence among the several stages of modern women's lives and a woman's need to integrate the several parts of her life. Statistical labor figures of increasing women's employment reveal the need for occupational training for every young woman. While prejudice may still be a handicap to advancement and higher pay, progress has been made in lessening distinctions between"masculine" and "feminine" jobs. The freedom to choose, the quest for self-fulfillment, the new feminist movements, effects of mothers' employment on children, opportunities and prospects of continuing education, and life patterns in other countries are some of the many topics for the reader to ponder in examining the development of the integrated feminine life pattern. An appendix consists of selected readings of international perspectives on women's changing life patterns. (EA)