The historical background of federal preferential treatment to particular groups, such as the case of the current affirmative action programs, is reviewed. Some of the arguments against affirmative action are criticized and the necessity for such programs is stressed. (MC)

A sample of 500 Black American males was studied to determine if there was a causal relationship between underemployment and/or underpayment and psychosocial stress. No significant relationships were found. (JS)

A national full employment policy will benefit Blacks only if it guarantees that the average income of Black families will improve in relation to the average income of White families. An expanding economy, increased enrollment by Blacks in the professions, and continued affirmative action will also improve Black upward mobility. (Author/MC)

Uses a modified version of the labor-utilization framework to measure the types and extents of underemployment for 2,107 black males and females, a sample from the National Survey of Black Americans (1980). Results reveal a larger percentage of females unemployed, underemployed by low hours or low income, and discouraged. (SLD)