This book examines the lives of America's working families from all social classes and ethnic groups and the familial obligations they must deal with, arguing that there is a widening gap between the demands of the workplace and the well-being of America's families. Chapter one provides an overview of the problems of longer work days, outdated social institutions, and inadequate public policies. Chapter two, "Predictably Unpredictable: The Lives of Working Americans," reports on a study of how workers are meeting family obligations. Chapter three, "Outdated Working Conditions and Inadequate Social Supports: The Impact on Children," details the impact of parental working conditions on children's educational outcomes. Chapter four, "Special Needs: The Experience of Particularly Vulnerable Children and Their Families," details the difficulties faced by working parents of special needs children. Chapter five, "Impact across the Life Span: Extended Family Fantasies and Realities," presents data on caregiving and the aging American population. Chapter six, "Economic Inequalities Magnified: Greater Strains, Fewer Resources," focuses on America's working poor. Chapter seven, "Gender Inequalities: At the Core Lies Our Failure To Address Working Families' Needs," focuses on working conditions for America's women. Chapter eight, "Society's Best Prospect: An Equal Chance for All Children and Adults," focuses on what must be done to meet the caregiving needs of the nation. (SD)