This report on sniffing behavior and solvent abuse among children and adolescents is intended for use by health and education professionals. A brief historical overview of solvents used, methods of use, and effects is provided. Three types of sniffers (experimenters, social users, chronic abusers) are identified, and age data, children at risk, and incidence data are discussed. Symptoms of sniffing are listed, steps to take when a child is discovered sniffing are enumerated, and suggestions are made for following through on suspicions of sniffing. Risk factors involved in sniffing are examined, including health dangers, sniffing-related injuries and accidents, and other dangers. Practical suggestions are made about initial interventions and about programs of education, prevention, and treatment. For teaching about the dangers of sniffing, a casualty-reduction approach designed to encourage a trend toward less dangerous kinds of sniffing is presented, and problems with this approach are discussed. High fear and information approaches are also considered. Non-specific prevention measures are described, along with considerations of controlling or treating solvents. Suggestions are given for counseling and therapy and for working with parents and with professionals. A general guide to chemicals in sniffed products and a list of further reading in several areas are provided. (NRB)