A 1970 survey of American Catholic diocesan priests was replicated in
1985 and 1993, producing trend data on morale, theological and ecclesi
ological attitudes, and professionalization. Overall morale and happin
ess were higher in 1985 and 1993 than in 1970. Problems of overwork an
d of meeting the rising expectations of laity rose over time; they wer
e greater in 1993 than earlier. Self-identity as professional men grad
ually increased. In 1993 the young priests were very conservative on i
nstitutional church issues.