This presentation reported on a study which tested the hypothesis that loss of mother before the age of 11, three of more children at home under 14 years of age, lack of a confiding marital relationship, & lack of employment may be factors which predispose working class women to depression. Statistical analysis of the results confirmed the hypothesis – depression was significantly associated with separation from father before 17 & lack of a confiding marital relationship. Variables which may be useful in the identification of high risk populations for depression & suicide were suggested. Possible intervention strategies were also discussed.