This report, fifth of eight in a series, highlights the views of California parents and other adults about issues affecting the health of adolescents, the role communities play in helping young people grow up well, and policies to address behaviors that undermine their health. Six in 10 parents surveyed by the California Center for Health Improvement said that they were very satisfied with their ability to guide their own child's behavior and talk to them about various issues, but only 44% said that they are satisfied with the amount of time they spent as a family. California parents identify distinct differences between the support they experienced as children and the support children experience today. They generally agree that programs outside the family, whether church or community sponsored, play a greater role today. Californians also believe that, in the area of youth attitudes about alcohol and drugs, smoking, sexual behavior, and violence, the media are having a negative effect. When California parents were asked about effective policies supporting adolescent health, more than 80% said that they wanted more information from health care providers about issues such as substance abuse, pregnancy prevention, and behavioral problems. They also want more prevention services, especially in the area of pregnancy prevention. More than 9 in 10 adults surveyed support efforts that promote a greater sense of responsibility among adolescents and young male adults. Californians also support coverage of alcohol and drug treatment by health insurance plans. Recommendations are made for the following policy changes: (1) providing opportunities for young people to play active and meaningful roles in their communities; (2) reinforcing and supporting parental efforts; (3) encouraging community members to play active and committed roles to support adolescent development; and (4) making preventive health care and alcohol and drug treatment a priority in health coverage. (Contains 6 tables and 11 references.) (SLD)