An effective program should be comprehensive and address more than just one risk condition. For example, efforts to convince a sexually active teenager of the danger of pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease will be more successful if efforts also focus on improving self-concept, demonstrating the importance of school attendance, and providing extra assistance to youth who live in urban areas. An effective program recognizes the significant relationship between self-concept and overall achievement, has high expectations for at-risk students, and teaches the social skills necessary for successful social interaction. In addition, an effective program provides opportunities for teachers and learners to agree on expectations, involves parents and families in goal setting, focuses on the link between motivation and success, and places considerable responsibility on the learner. Specific examples of successful programs for at-risk youth are described. 6 references