This study in upstate New York investigated certain characteristics of 602 public affairs education discussion groups; relative group stability in terms of change in size over time; whether characteristics affect group survival; and how group structure is related to certain attitudes on individualism and community growth. Data were gathered by questionnaire (about a 50% response) on community size, residence, age, sex, educational level, occupations, group size, and number of communities represented in each group. Members (52.5% men and 47.5% women) were largely farmers, housewives, or professionals, aged 25-65, high school graduates or beyond, and residents of population centers and of urban or transitional counties. Single community representation was dominant (60%), especially in rural areas (63%). Most groups were relatively heterogeneous, but on a consistent basis. Those with eight to eleven members more often stayed the same size than larger or smaller groups. Ages under 35, postgraduate education, and professional, technical, or related employment were related to group survival; ages 36-55 were positively related. Farm residence negatively affected attitudes toward community economic growth. Education, residence, and occupation affected perceived dependence on the future of one's community. (ly)