Rural areas in many parts of the U.S. experience population decline from outmigration. Geographic mobility has long been a contributing factor to the social and economic instability of rural communities; high-achieving and ambitious youth are inclined to leave rural areas to take advantage of the expansive economic opportunities and cultural and…

This article discusses how the conditions in Russia are changing the characteristics of rural families, reducing the prevalence of traditional culture, changing the behavior of rural youth, and increasing familial conflict and the incidence of divorce. The deterioration of the social and economic situation that is being experienced today by many…

The 28 papers in the proceedings are separated into 7 categories according to the session at which they were presented at the annual meeting. The areas of rural life covered by the papers are youth, rural development in the 1970's, population, social change, race and culture, community and community development, and ecology and environment. (PS)

The following lectures are included in this volume: Needed: "Turned on" Teachers; The Most Important Advantage; HILT: High Intensity Language Training; The Education Gap: Why Mexican American Children Fail in School; The Mexican American Heritage; The Invisible Poor: The World of the Migrant; and Emergence of the Mexican American. The…

Explores the unique values and characteristics of rural communities and farm families, particularly individual, family, and community factors that may protect children from potentially negative developmental effects of chronic stress or adversity. Considers community strengths in supporting children's healthy development. Identifies implications…