FAMILY unit therapy (F.U.T.) is conceptually differentiated from family member therapy (F.M.T.). Clinical material is used to demonstrate the potential of F.U.T. for inducing positive-adaptive changes in the family, as a system, and in the functioning of its members, as related to Emotional Capital (EC), Autonomy (A), Self-Regulation (SR) and Competence (C). The implications of this experience and of some family research for social action are discussed. Questions are also raised about established and socially significant diagnostic and treatment practices, in dealing with emotionally and intellectually deprived children who are slow to develop.