This overview, one of the four components of the Family Life Education optional unit of the Manitoba (Canada) Health Education curriculum, consists of a brief philosophical statement outlining rationale, goals, objectives, and suggested implementation. The other three components are grade level guides designed for grades 5, 7, and 9. The program is designed to reduce the negative personal and social costs associated with contemporary health-compromising adolescent behavior. Specific goals are: to promote the family as an important social unit; to encourage the development of positive lifestyle practices that promote optimal well-being; and to provide students with opportunities to recognize practices that compromise health and plan ways to develop more positive approaches. (IAH)