This comprehensive investigation into the reasons behind the crucial problem of the student dropout in foreign language programs focuses on seven interrelated areas. These are: (1) student, (2) teacher, (3) administration, (4) counselor, (5) parent, (6) community, and (7) teacher training. A fault-tree analysis of the dropout problem provides a format in which each page presents an enumerated, problematic condition with a corresponding, suggested solution. The systematic approach allows for rapid identification of troublesome areas in the language program. Suggestions on the use of the handbook, a bibliography, and statistical data pertaining to language instruction in secondary schools in California are included. The appendixes contain an article by John Dusel entitled"Diagnosing the Decrease in Foreign Language Enrollment" and sample questionnaires used in the project. (RL)