A model of relative deprivation is proposed drawing on the writings of Gurr (1970) and Runciman (1966) and is discussed in relation to existing studies. Those aspects of the model concerning the intensity of affective reaction to relative deprivation are subjected to empirical test using samples of employed and unemployed black and white youth. The prediction that the degree of relative deprivation is negatively associated with attitudes to the perceived cause of deprivation receives only limited support. Various indices of relative deprivation are compared and it is concluded that present relative deprivation is the most appropriate operational measure. It is concluded that in understanding the attitudes of black and white youth to societal institutions other social characteristics are more important then relative deprivation.