Historically, the status of mental health services in the United States has depended upon the economic stability of the nation; much of the financial support of these programs has come from government sources. Since current budget reductions have somewhat curtailed NIMH-supported community and mental health center programs, it becomes increasingly important to systematically evaluate the changing relationship between the mental health professions and the society at large. The need for better administrative and fiscal supervision of community-based mental health service units as well as professional assessment of such centers is evident; unless evaluative data are gathered, social and professional growth may be stifled.Abstract Teaser