Discussed in this paper is a preliminary analysis of findings from data gathered during the first phase of a research project exploring the processes whereby the nature of the mother's occupation affects her family life, especially (1) her partnership in decisions about housework, child care and education and (2) the negotiation of the allocation of those responsibilities among family members. Following description of the project's procedures and the actual sample of 15 families studied, preliminary findings are presented in two sections. The first section outlines sample characteristics, using mostly the quantitative information available at this phase, while the second section summarizes the qualitative data generated by interviews with families. The report concludes with a revised research plan for the second phase of the project. Forms of interview schedules and coding categories are appended along with a description of the scales used to measure the subjects' work and family environments. (MP)