This survey analyzes the descriptions of research samples provided in 1,353 research articles relating to children. The 1974 volumes of 24 research journals were examined, and all articles in these volumes were included in the survey if they met two criteria: (1) having a research sample, and (2) dealing with children and youth between the prenatal period and 24 years of age. Each of the articles was classified by age category (childhood or adolescence), and by selected areas of research. The content area categories, which were not mutually exclusive, included: physical development (disorders and disease), physical development (other), cognitive development, socioemotional development, the family, the broader environment, intervention programs and services, education, and health. In addition, each article was scrutinized for information pertaining to 35 sample characteristics. A 4-point nominal scale was used to indicate whether information about each of the 35 characteristics was specified, inferred, not specified, or not applicable. Tables of results present the number and percentage of articles in which each sample characteristic appears, for the entire survey and for each content category. Results for each of the 35 characteristics are discussed and an overview of reporting practices within general areas is presented. Findings are summarized in a conclusion and in an executive summary of the study that is included. (SB)