Early identification of Minimal Brain Dysfunction (MBD) is now easier, partly as a result of a series of 3 studies made in rural Vermont over a period of 15 years. MBD victims exhibit different behaviors at different ages. "Fidgetiness", a "nuisance" factor, and poor learning are all strong predictors of MBD for children at the 9th grade level. Especially at the 4th or 5th grade level, children who exhibit MBD behavior for more than a year risk later academic difficulties and other disorders. MBD is sensitive to environmental factors and is aggravated by societal diversity, large families, living in apartments or trailers, and open classrooms. Factors which improve MBD are increased large muscle activity, rigid social structure, single family dwellings, and tightly run classrooms. As adults, individuals with MBD may exhibit alcoholism, criminality, hysterical behavior, and serious deficiencies in the ability to form lasting relationships. In addition, among MBD victims there is a greater trend towards adolescent illegitimate pregnancy; school dropout; lower socio-economic status; poor pre-, para-, and post-natal care; and prematurity. Medication can be effective in the treatment of MBD and should be attempted. (SB)