This report compares results from 1996 national study of the current attitudes of American teenagers with similar 1974 and 1983 surveys. Almost 1,000 students between 13 and 17 years from households representative of the national population in geographic distribution, population density, household size, age of household head, and family income participated. Males and females were equally represented. Findings are presented on adolescents' attitudes in four major areas. "Students and Their Schools" presents overall marks for schools; and attitudes towards school personnel, grades and homework, teaching methods, discipline, gangs, drugs, coursework, and student activities such as school sports, music, academic and service clubs, and student government. "After School" covers leisure activities such as music, television, radio and movies, computer and video games, sports, and reading; work; allowances and spending money; community service and non-school organizations; and alcohol and drug use. "The Homefront" addresses attitudes toward parent relationships, family communication, rules and regulations, domestic violence, and parent drug use. "The Big Picture" covers attitudes toward national and world problems; politics and government; the 1996 Presidential election; religious practices; heroes; and views on contemporary issues such as families and children, sexual issues, role of government, social and moral issues, crime, justice, and economic security; careers; life goals; and marriage and children. (KDFB)