This hearing explored the value of work, and how changes in the economy and the composition of the work force have affected families. Witnesses (1) reported data on such topics as the kinds of jobs currently available, women's participation in the work force, unemployment, and labor force growth over the next decade; (2) argued that the economy is largely structured to complement the 19th century model of marriage, and that anti-discrimination and affirmative action legislation, along with upgrading of female-dominated jobs, is needed to facilitate the development of egalitarian marriages; (3) argued that the welfare poor do not work because of the permissive character of government policy; (4) discussed the economic contribution of women to family well-being, gender differencs in labor market positions and earnings, and the implications of research findings for policy; (5) reported on studies of black Americans and the relationship between rapid displacement of unskilled industrial jobs, growing role strains within black families, and related psychosocial consequences; (6) discussed the causes of poverty for single mothers, and the effect of welfare on work and dependency; (7) reported research on the effect of economic dislocation on children's lives; and (8) described experiences with and aspects of education and training programs around the country. (RH)