Despite aggressive efforts at recruitment of cocaine users of this age, very few clients were obtained compared to adult cocaine clients during the same time frame. An examination of admissions data for city, State, and nation indicate that this experience is typical. There appears to be an under-recruitment of youth into treatment, particularly evidenced by low rates of self-referral for juvenile as compared to older treatment admissions. Younger cocaine users may be less severely impaired and/or dependent, or may be more reluctant to use the treatment resources available. The capacity of the family, schools, the medical community, and public agencies in the areas of health, social services, and criminal justice to take action and possible impediments to that action are discussed. 2 tables, 27 references. (Author abstract modified)