Intervention programs for the disadvantaged should be based on an understanding of the behavior and attitudes of people in poverty. Poor people share a sense of hopelessness and helplessness, a lack of belief that they can change their situations, and low self-esteem. Programs to train child care workers who are themselves disadvantaged (parents, foster home mothers, day care and institutional staff) should show trainees that what they are doing is important, and that how they stimulate and interact with the children in their care can vitally affect the children's development and chances for the future. This objective can be accomplished by involving parents and staff in decision making, showing respect for them as individuals and respect for what they know, and discussing with them the babies' preferences and individual styles. To effect meaningful and lasting changes in children, parents must be involved in intervention programs. Such programs should stress respect for cultural differences and for parents' choices on how to raise their children, coupled with constant and intensive support for the caregivers. (NH)