Contends that in Arabian culture a hierarchical order is maintained in the family in which the dominance of the male over female and older over younger is observed. The family offers security to its members in return for behavior that is harmonious with the cultural code. Respect for and obedience of elders top the list of family traditions, and paying honor to parents is held to bring about prosperity, success, health, and happiness. Tradition favors living with parents after marriage in the extended family. Filial relationships are more important than marital relationships. A son is given more freedom, responsibility, and authority than a daughter. Parents have a right to arrange marriages for their children of both sexes. Changes have come about with socioeconomic changes following the discovery of oil. The number of educated families is rising rapidly, socialization now takes place partially outside the family, and there is conflict over lack of achievement motivation in the young. Intergenerational conflict results in loss of family support. It is suggested, on the basis of clinical experience, that communication improves during family therapy and may prevent reprecipitation of illness in family members.