This conference report briefly summarizes the biological and psychosocial characteristics and problems of the age group 5 to 18 years, and defines solutions to these problems in terms of research needed, changes in health services, changes in general services, and changes in manpower training. The perceived need for such recommendations was based on two premises: (1) that the process of rapid socioeconomic development and industrialization now taking place in Europe has profoundly changed the nature of the problems experienced by children and adolescents; and (2) that existing services for children and adolescents are inadequate and/or inappropriate for solving these new problems. The characteristics and problems of children identified were based on findings of earlier working groups. Detailed reports of these groups are available elsewhere. Problems identified concern the following topics: deviations in growth and development, mortality and morbidity, chronic diseases, infectious diseases, nutrition, problems related to sexual development, psychosocial reactions to growth and development, accidents, suicide, juvenile delinquency, substance (tobacco, alcohol and drugs) abuse, school problems, work entry, and leisure-related problems. Recommendations include the need for research on the following topics: normal growth, development and behavior; morbidity and mortality; specific biological problems; and specific psychosocial problems. Other solutions discussed concern the organization of health services; health education; services for families, school, and the community; and manpower training. Lists of participants and related WHO publications are included. (Author/SS)