This book reports the results of the third national survey commissioned by the National Career Development Association and the National Occupational Information Coordinating Committee conducted by The Gallup Organization on the career preparation of adults age 18 and older. Interviews were conducted with 471 males and 575 females of whom 348 males and 365 females were employed. The racial composition was 85.4% white, 10.2% black, and 3.4% other. Of the persons surveyed, 16.4% were 18-25 years, 33.1% were 26-40 years, 22.5% were 41-55 years, 13.1% were 56-65 years, and 13.7% were 66 and older; 21.8% were college graduates and 14.4% did not graduate from high school. The goal of the monograph is to highlight the need for expansion and improvement of career development practices. Major findings indicate that adults believe high schools are not doing enough to help students develop job skills, plan careers, and find employment. Results suggest that youth need information and help in career planning, and would benefit from increased use of counselor's services. It also appears that there is a need for greater employer involvement in aiding persons in their career development. Part 1 introduces the survey, summarizes key findings, and discusses some implications relating to work and education. Part 2 provides in-depth analysis of survey data and implications for career development and educational reform. Differences in career development due to the following factors are examined: level of education; gender; race; and age. Four appendices, which account for over half the publication, are: (1) sample design; (2) survey questions; (3) sample composition; and (4) detailed findings. Contains numerous tables. (JBJ)