Some antecedent causes of the resistance or inability of women to set goals are explored. Aspects of socialization and education which determine the decision-making and goal-setting behavior of women in adolescence and in maturity are delineated. The thesis is put forth that political and societal institutions are, to a great extent, responsible for the inability of women to set formal or informal goals. Hall's (1972) model of coping strategies suggests three general mechanisms for dealing with goal-setting: Type I concerns structural role definition; Type II considers prioritizing role appropriate activities and Type III involves reorientation of role in response to others. A fourth type which may be added to this model includes a broader re-definition of existing social and political structures. Type III may elicit the most support from significant others in coping with conflict. Types I and IV would elicit least support and be most difficult to accomplish. Types I and IV are most closely related to long-range goals in that they require restructuring not only of role but of societal institutions. Strategies which consider each coping mechanism may include self-awareness, other awareness and societal awareness. An integrated analysis of goal-training and attainment places emphasis on individual, institutional and societal remedies and removes traditional responsibility from women themselves. (Author)