A causal model was developed which explains and predicts the variation among a sample of communities in their levels of per capita public spending. Using United States census data it was concluded that 50 percent of the variance was explained by the equations measuring need, preference, and ability to finance public spending. (Author/MC)

Evaluates the hypothesis that boomtowns enter a period of generalized crisis and loss of traditional values/attitudes; considers impact of energy development on residents' involvement in/attachment to their community, and perceived quality of community services. Uses linear and systemic models on data from three intermountain communities…