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This article examines the sociological research during the period 1950-1970 that has contributed to setting up an unfavourable image of the lower middle class suburban homeowner. French research is compared with that of Anglo-Saxon sociologists in order to illustrate their common approach to residential areas in relation to theories concerning the deep changes of Western societies, and, especially in Europe, of the working class. This class found itself in the sociological spotlight, and its various forms of housing have been assessed as either « traditional » or « modern » modes of living. This interpretation has resulted in a threefold stigmatisation of the suburban home, which became a symbol of anti-modernity, individualism and the adoption of middle class values and attitudes.