New programs taking a comprehensive approach to disadvantaged young men in urban areas have met with some success. This paper attempts to define the issues that will influence the development of comprehensive programs and examines the qualities that have made them a promising alternative for the future. Issues that shape the lives of youth include the following: (1) individual action versus environmental constraints as the root of economic failure; (2) assistance versus empowerment approaches to program development; (3) special problems of adolescence; (4) discrimination by race; (5) discrimination by class; (6) poverty; and (7) media messages. Principles governing successful programs include the following: (1) flexibility; (2) holistic rather than categorical approach; (3) community-based approach; (4) intervention aimed at institutions rather than individuals; and (5) early intervention. Successful programs have the following characteristics: (1) they address young people on a personal level through caring relationships with adults; (2) they provide a protective, family-like environment; and (3) they link youth to real opportunities within the community. Ingredients generally agreed upon as most needed for program success include the following: (1) individual attention; (2) neighborhood or community-based multiservice approach; (3) trained personnel; (4) social and personal skills training and counseling; (5) job skills training and placement; (6) parent involvement; and (7) peer involvement. A 50-item bibliography is appended. (AF)