Demographic statistics indicate that more than half of todays families are in dual-earner situations. In an effort to examine the issues being faced by these families 2 avenues for future research are proposed. 1st research must begin to focus on the working couple as opposed to the individual and how their work lives affect the family. 2nd new attempts must be made to distinguish between role responsibility and role enactment to understand the consequences for family life. It appears that the dual-earner family is here to stay and researchers must be sensitive to the influence and interaction of 2 work worlds as they affect family life. Constructive attempts must be made by family educators and researchers alike to understand the potential effects of this life style for the family rather than simply comparing this life style to more traditional family patterns. Policy makers can propose changes at governmental and corporate levels which assist dual-earner families including such potential supports as flextime cafeteria-style benefits parental leave and assistance with child care.