Recognizing expressions of youth culture is a major step toward understanding teens. This understanding can help parents keep lines of communication open between them and their teens. Making it clear that you do not want your child to use alcohol, tobacco, or illicit drugs is a proven factor in reducing youth drug use. RETROspective is designed to immerse the reader in expressions of youth culture by presenting a guided tour through American youth culture from the 1950s to the present. In addition to illustrating expressions of the culture, RETROspective explains what youth culture is and how it is reflected everywhere, its influence on youth's attitudes and behaviors, the role of media and music in the culture, and the importance of media literacy in a media driven society. Lastly, RETROspective includes "Building Bridges," a feature that offers suggestions for starting conversations with youth about various topics, including alcohol, tobacco, illicit drugs, and media influences. (GCP)