A factual account of a 10-minute conversation between a husband and wife about their daughter's application to college depicts marital problems. Closer examination reveals the tensions facing the middle class family and the significance to them of academic competition, higher education, comparative generational success, and social acceptance.…

One of the most affluent segments of the population is also one of the least well prepared to face the reality of college costs. It is not the need analysis system that causes difficulty but a combination of rapidly increasing costs and the changing lifestyle of this group. (MSE)

Current proposals to assist middle-income groups with college costs and estimates of the burden to parents in different income groups are considered. Reasons for discontent by middle-income and upper-income groups regarding college costs are considered in relation to the following issues: the demographic squeeze, the temptation to choose high-cost…

This report presents the results of a study examining the effects of rapidly rising tuitions at the nation's "elite" private colleges and universities, and the impact on the enrollment of middle-income students. The paper traces the income background of Consortium on Financing Higher Education (COFHE) schools and shows how students from…

A study explored changing family patterns among married middle and upper middle class women students over thirty with family intact. Eighty-seven homemaker-students enrolled at the Universlty of Maryland, College Park campus, during the spring semester, 1975, responded to a written questionnaire regarding their family patterns of decision making…

This article discusses a program in education and mental health set up for young mothers who would like to resume their studies but find inherent difficulties. Evaluation of the project's first year revealed that these women were capable of integrating their various life roles and had achieved a sense of competence. (Author/BW)

A study of parent contributions to dependent student's college costs in 1983 and 1987 found that contributions have increased significantly in general and for the $40,000-50,000 income group in particular. (Author/MSE)

Investigated 40 working-class and 40 middle-class parents' beliefs about the meaning of schooling by conducting in-depth interviews. Results indicated that middle-class parents tended to value schooling more for the credentials schools offered, whereas working class parents tended to value schooling more for the learning opportunities (applied and…

It has generally been assumed that lower socioeconomic status teenage parents are atypical in their expectations about child development compared to other parental groups. However there is little information available concerning the expectations of middle class parents. Middle class nonparent teenagers (N=50) and two parental groups (participants…

As part of a series of hearings on the reauthorization of the Higher Education Act of 1965, the House Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education convened a hearing in Chicago, Illinois, in order to hear the recommendations of those who work directly in higher education. The witnesses testified on students loans, the difference between grants and…

The impact of financial aid in helping a student stay in college is examined from data collected in 1972 from students who entered college in 1968. The findings include: (1) Students, especially men, who rely on loans for support during college increase their chances of dropping out. (2) Students who rely on scholarships or grants increase their…