Varied theoretical approaches provide insight into the complexity of the process of role shift for men and women. The concept of role "shift" as opposed to role "change" recognizes the need to consider the progressively complex interactions and processes which occur intraindividually, interindividually, culturally, and historically as individuals interact with, react to, and act upon their environment. Recently, attention was directed toward the male only from the perspective of his response to the new woman. Dependency, diffusion, decentralization, and demystification are four issues underlying the shift in role focus. The feminist movement which sought to give women equal rights with men has opened the way for women to enter the workplace. This has created a double standard where men are victims of the traditional stereotypic male worker, provider roles. Already some men in dual career families are attempting to integrate occupational and family roles. They accept and actively support their wives' careers and value close relationships with their children. Men are developing their own support systems, and men's studies is an accepted and important discipline in some universities. Although the question of men's victimization has not been answered, the problems and potential for positive adaptation have been identified. (LLL)