After briefly noting trends in major changes occurring in American society during the past 20 years, this booklet cites and interprets some specific changes taking place in family demographics during the past decade. While it is argued that general trends in family characteristics and child health and development are beginning to show signs of improving, a number of disturbing social indicators are mentioned that point to serious problems and unmet needs for large segments of the population. The significance of public policy for improved human services is discussed, followed by presentation of a brief case study of one major metropolitan area in the United States, the city of Houston. (Author/MP)