ABSTRACT
As the population of the United States moves toward the next century, concern for the mental health of our population will become even more important. Several factors will become important including: (1) political and economic forces as they influence the relative concern given to social issues, and (2) the large numbers of “baby boomers” who will be moving into their 50’s and may demand a higher level of social services. As mental health service providers attempt to plan for the future they must be cognizant of these issues as well as the importance of local social norms regarding the perceptions of mental health issues and treatment.
