This paper reviews the literature pertaining to the life situation of black female professionals, presents the results of a research project which investigated the attitudes of some black female professionals on various issues such as the feminist movement and balancing a career and family, and offers a discussion and summary of the data and implications for future research. The study group was a convenience sample of 12 black women professionals from Hampton, Virginia, most of whom were faculty members at Hampton Institute. An open-ended questionnaire focusing on racism, sexism, career experiences, personal and familial relationships, and sociopolitical views was administered to the group in an interview format. Each question is discussed in the report and followed by brief outlines of the responses, in some cases including quotations from respondents. In summarizing the responses, the report breaks the questions down into four categories. On the issue of racism and sexism there was a unanimous feeling that stereotypes prevailed for both black men and women, that career ascent was impeded by these stereotypes, and that the current status of black women in their fields was low. On the issue of career growth and experience, the respondents felt that opportunities were improving, that they had experienced competition with blacks and whites, and that black organizations might be helpful. When questioned concerning their personal lives, all respondents found it difficult to balance career and family and half felt they had a positive image in the community. The group's feelings about the feminist movement and the civil rights movement were varied. A brief list of references concludes the report. (CG)