Differences between the lower social classes: some new trends.

From a four-year sample of 7407 patients, this study sought to determine whether characteristics of patients in Social Class IV are closer to those of Class V, as frequently assumed, or more similar to those of Class III. The implications of social class differences for newer forms of treatment, and newly emerging types of therapists, were also examined. Results suggest that Classes IV and V should be considered separately for both research and clinical planning purposes.