The type and extent of the problems facing Mexican-American youth and the educational and psychological manifestations of these problems are examined. The community junior college's role in meeting certain basic needs of youth is analyzed. Included also are a review of relevant literature and a summary of observations and interviews made at a number of Southern California junior colleges. It was concluded that the junior college has a definite contribution to make in the field of Mexican-American studies. Appended are catalog descriptions for Mexican-American studies courses at three Southern California junior colleges. (MC)