Change and persistent problems in the quality of life of open-country families (n=317) in four eastern Kentucky counties (Harlan, Perry, Whitley, and Wolfe) were examined via comparison of data derived from surveys of household heads in 1961 and 1973. The 1961 survey provided data on occupations, income, level of living, and opinions re: the nature of society and other conditions. The 1973 survey provided additional data re: the nature of change in a family situation (improvement vs deterioration) and the perceived direction of change re: wages/salaries; welfare programs; politics and political parties; job opportunities; medical services; education; and other aspects of life. Results indicated: families at all stages of the life cycle had advanced in material wealth; aspects of the family life cycle seemed to have affected opinions re: direction of change and current situation only in terms of job opportunities, real income, and the public schools; considerable dissatisfaction was expressed by the majority re: most aspects of the political/economic situation and man's condition in society. Since dissatisfaction was more prevalent in 1973, correlations were made between the rapid expansion of aspirations/desires and the rising levels of income among the moderately comfortable and between dissatisfaction with government/politics among lower level families and income. (JC)