The economic crisis has emphasized the significance of the family as a social unit even in modern life. The effects of the depression on the individual families are largely determined by the fundamental characteristic of each family prior to its economic collapse. Thus we find trends toward family demoralization and toward a record of family unity and loyalty. Increased tension, desertions, drinking, vice, and mental abnormality reveal the first; and sacrifice, more use of the home, and a wiser philosophy of living express the second trend. Especially significant have been the influences operating upon children and youth. There is nearly universal conviction that direct relief has hurt family life. Newspaper publicity and propaganda led to excessive expectations and these, unfulfilled, have encouragen feelings of disillussionment. The various forms of work-relief have been beneficial in contrast with the dole.