Focusing on the family as a context for the development of life plans by youth, this report summarizes findings of a 14-year longitudinal study on the educational and occupational life plans and achievement of youth in rural low-income areas in six southeastern states. Specific attention is given to (1) how parental educational and occupational status predicts the educational and occupational achievement of their children, (2) how parental values and child rearing practices differ according to family background or socioeconomic status, and (3) how parenting behaviors influence children's self-concept, mental ability, and academic and achievement motivation. The original study began in 1969, when a total of 1,202 fifth- and sixth-graders and their mothers were questioned about social origins, early socialization influences, and early socialized outcomes. In 1975, a total of 945 of the children were reinterviewed when they were high school juniors and seniors. In 1978, a group of 544 of the original sample were interviewed as young adults. Finally, in 1983, a small subsample was identified for detailed interviews. Findings indicate the extent to which the family makes significant contributions to the attainment of youths' educational and occupational goals. It is concluded that findings support the need for educators to involve the family in school learning activities, including science education. (RH)