After parents, teachers should be the most important adults in the lives of adolescents. Because students spend so much time in school, their impressions of school are formulated by their various experiences. Teachers can have a positive effect if students find them to be knowledgeable and caring. Because teachers transmit the cumulative wisdom of society, they can influence adolescents' attitudes toward the basic tenets on which society is based. Determining the role of teachers is difficult, due to lack of data, and the subjective nature of reports on the subject. For the relationship between adolescent and teacher to be primary in importance, certain qualities need to be evident: 1) the relationship has to be personal, 2) communication should be deep and extensive, and 3) students must gain a feeling of personal satisfaction. 44 references. (Author abstract modified)