The multifaceted cultural dimensions of Black families are not fully taken into account in literature used by family therapists. To illustrate this deficiency, the author seeks to (1) review how Black families in general have been heretofore viewed in literature, (2) examine the special stresses faced by Blacks, at all financial levels, as they cope with racism and differing economic status in their attempt to maintain stability while moving up the economic and social ladders, (3) explore theories of social mobility and the role that the extended family structure plays in Black families, and (4) begin to explore the practical implications of therapeutic approach to social science research for the practitioners. (Author)