This study examined ways in which 42 low income mothers used a multifaceted neighborhood-based parent education program. Two different patterns of sequential relationship between use of staff services, verbal participation in a discussion group, attendance, and formation of peer ties were identified. These patterns were shown to be related to initial levels of life event stress. Differential rates of use for program offerings were related to (1) need (specifically, life event stress; support from peers, parents, and other relatives; and number of children); (2) dispositional differences (attitudes toward expression of impulse); and (3) differences in social experience (helping relationships and community participation). (Author)