The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act was passed in 1974 because some legislation was needed in order to discourage the abuse of individual rights due to the personal prejudices and/or disapproval of others. There are thousands of persons in American society who because of advanced educational training and a keen sense of perceptivity, can virtually control the lives of others who depend on them for guidance and help in decision making. Professional educators occupy a large segment of this perceptive elite. They possess far more influence over the lives of many people than some members of the profession realize. Thus, it is vital that educators be aware, continuously, of their attitudes and behaviors that directly influence the lives of millions who have given them the privilege of leadership. In higher education, counselors, financial aid personnel, admissions officers and student activities directors can literally make or break the academic career of a student, whether this act is done consciously or not. A clear and concise reference that provides details about the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act is available to helping professionals who need assistance in dealing with these problems. (Author)