The advisory report for professionals and public concerns the use of stimulant medications in treating elementary school-age children with behavioral disturbances. The discussion of the nature of children's behavioral disorders focuses upon hyperactivity, often termed minimal brain dysfunction or hyperkinetic behavioral disturbance, which is often treated with stimulant drugs. Incidence, causes, course, and diagnosis of hyperkinetic disorders are summarized, and drug treatment and its degree of success reviewed. Concerns voiced by the public and the media about hazards and abuses when stimulant medications are used for children are discussed and some misconceptions clarified. It is concluded that stimulant drugs are a valid method of treatment in hyperkinetic behavioral disorders, but not the only effective form of treatment. Expanded programs of continuing education and research are recommended. (KW)