Two years ago, Public Agenda conducted a landmark study of American attitudes toward young people. Then, the most disconcerting finding was that Americans were deeply troubled, almost fearful, about the moral character of the next generation. Today, the disturbing fact is how little those attitudes have changed.

In Kids These Days 1999, the second in a series of tracking surveys running until 2002, substantial majorities of Americans describe teens and children with words like "lazy" and "irresponsible," and few say it is very common to find young people who are friendly or respectful. Fewer than half of adults -- and only one-third of teens -- say the next generation will make America a better place.

These findings reflect a deep-rooted concern in American society. The tragic series of school shootings since our 1997 survey haven't made the public's view of young people darker. On the other hand, the booming economy and recent leveling off of teen drug use haven't made public attitudes any more favorable.

Americans hold parents responsible for what's happening to children - and if anything the public judgement of parents is getting harsher, even as the public acknowledges that parenting is harder than ever. Strong majorities of teens, however, report that their family and friends are there for support when needed.

But the public's skepticism about young people has yet to make Americans turn away and give up on the next generation. Overwhelming majorities say giving kids a good start in life is the most important issue facing the country, and say that any child, no matter how troubled, can be turned around. And rather than rely on government social programs, Americans would turn to their own schools, employers and communities to help families.

Key findings include:

	Negative Reactions Most Americans say they are disappointed with "kids these days." A strong majority describes teenagers negatively, using words such as rude, irresponsible and wild. More than half describe children disapprovingly. A majority, including both adults and teens, says that youngsters will not make America a better place to live.
	A Focus on Values and Respect Americans believe too many youngsters today lack basic values. More people today than two years ago say that "failing to learn values such as honesty, respect and responsibility" is the most serious problem affecting kids. Only a handful of adults say it is very common to come across children or teens who are friendly, helpful or who treat people with respect.
	Putting the Blame on Parents The public holds parents fundamentally responsible for how well kids are doing. Fewer than one in four Americans say it is common to find parents who are good role models and many people are more likely to blame parents, rather than social forces, for problems with kids.
	Difficult Circumstances Despite their criticism of parents, most Americans acknowledge that families have a tough job to do under difficult circumstances. The public also recognizes that outside forces -- such as drugs, violence and crime -- sometimes undermine parents' efforts to raise good kids.
	Little Willingness to Write off Kids Despite their pessimism about children and teenagers today, Americans believe that helping kids get a good start in life is one of the most important issues facing the country, even more important than creating jobs or reducing crime. And, by a margin of 13 to 1, the public believes that given enough attention and the right guidance, even the most troubled teenagers can get back on track.
	The Role of Government Americans are most likely to look to schools, employers and community-based organizations -- and not the government -- for solutions to problems facing youngsters. Minority Americans, however, are more likely to see government programs as effective and to believe a shortage of government assistance is a very serious problem.
	Positive Attitudes among Teens Teenagers today, just as they did two years ago, say they have a warm relationship with parents and other adults, strong faith in God, and reliable friends. Nevertheless, teenagers do report they have a lot of time on their hands, suggesting that potential trouble is not far away.

The series of five Kids These Days surveys are sponsored by the Ronald McDonald House Charities and the Ad Council. There is more information about the project in our press release. We also welcome comments about the study on our message board.

This Web presentation is a complete version of Kids These Days '99. A PDF version of the report is also available. To read the PDF version you must download and install the free Adobe Acrobat Reader. If you would like copies of the print version, contact the Ad Council. For copies of Kids These Days 1997, use our order form.

In addition, our issue guide on The Family has an in-depth look at policy options and public attitudes on related problems.