Sociologist and clinical psychologist Thomas Cottle discusses his book "Children's Secrets." In the book, children reveal, in their own words, the impact of such painful secrets as violence, infidelity, incest, debt, alcoholism, and mental illness--on each member of their family.

Discussing the work of Thresholds, a Chicago social service organization, and interviewing Jerry Dinson and Michael Sternberg. They discuss what Thresholds provides and how it helps people with their confidence and mental health. Includes a song called "Young Paul".

Hortense Calisher discusses and reads excerpts from “Queenie: A Novel,” a coming-of-age story about Queenie, a teenage girl raised an unorthodox household. Terkel and Calisher discuss reoccurring themes like the relationship between sex and property and the preservation of beauty as one ages. Calisher comments on her unique writing style, and Terkel praises her writing, calling it elegant and euphemistic. The two dance around certain topics and language deemed inappropriate for public broadcast, bringing up the issue of censorship.

Dr. Thomas Szasz discusses his book "The Manufacture of Madness: A Comparative Study of the Inquisition and the Mental Health Movement" and the ways that mental illness has been used to control and maintain the status quo, scapegoat certain kinds of people, and label people as "other." Szasz asserts his belief that mental illness and mental health cannot be defined, that depression and schizophrenia are not diseases, and the distinction between individuals seeking mental health treatment and those who are institutionalized against their will.

Discussing the topic of women and freedom with Marlene Dixon, Nancy Stokely, and Janet Tenney. They discuss feminism, women's rights, and the women's liberation movement. Includes a Elizabeth Knight/Julia Ward Howe song called "Hallelujah".

Discussing women and women's rights with Dr. Marlene, Nancy Stokely, and Janet Tenney. They discuss the women's suffrage movement, gender equality, and women's roles. Includes the women's suffrage song "The New America" by Elizabeth Knight.

Discussing the book "Margaret Mead and Samoa the making and unmaking of an anthropological myth" with the author Derek Freeman.