The five-part document reviews the literature of job placement and the relationship between youth and employment--the barriers, services, and specific needs. The first part discusses in particular the importance of the work role, the preparation of youth for employment, and the methods used to secure work as these affect youth's entry into the labor market. In part 2, the placement needs of youth are examined in terms of unemployment, educational opportunities, career planning, and job seeking skills. Specific youth groups are discussed regarding the unique factors affecting youth's abilities to enter an occupational role. The groups are: women (in particular, the minorities), rural youth, dropouts, college bound, and noncollege bound students. Specific problems, possible educational pathways for job preparation, surveys of current vocational guidance programs, and recommendations for vocational guidance are discussed for each group. In part 3, components of the guidance system through a literature survey of educational and guidance services are presented. In part 4, the family, school, and government as providers of placement services are reviewed. In part 5, the exemplary models of placement services are presented. A summary of the current status of career guidance of youth and a bibliography are included. (Author/JB)