Dubious Balm

THE overwork of "working mothers" and the marital strain of two-career families pose serious dangers to the modern family. Unfortunately, the staff seeks to heal society's wounds with a balm of dubious effectiveness.

For years, American society has been plagued by go-getter husbands who pursue wealth for the assumed good of the family while ignoring their childrens' emotional needs. But to imply that the House bill is the best way in which to institute parental leave and change social attitudes is presumptuous. Such legislation leaves businesses, especially smaller ones, little room for maneuvering.

Many parents would rather stay at home with their children than put them in day care. But this is difficult, as the current income tax deduction of $2000 per dependent would have to be raised to nearly $6000 to equal its real dollar value of the 1950s. Reform is needed, not more intervention.

We should be cautious about implementing national polices which might have unforeseen effects and which fail to address more fundamental problems. Marriage and childbearing are voluntary endeavors. We should not socialize the costs of these personal actions or force industry to bear them. Americans must be prepared to take the economic and moral consequences of their actions.