Mass communication researchers have largely ignored the role of audio media and popular music in the lives of children, yet the available evidence shows that children do listen. Extant studies yield a consistent developmental portrait of childrens' listening frequency, but there is a notable lack of programatic research over the past decade, one in which stereophonic and tape playback systems proliferated widely, FM music formats generated greater market stratification, and cultural markets for preteen-oriented entertainers became established. Children can usually name performers and musical genres they prefer. In addition, the social aspect of listening seems to cover several of the same functions as television viewing, including entertainment and passing the time, and has some unique functions; for example, friendships may be established on shared musical taste. From song lyrics, young listeners may learn new vocabulary, ideas, and other life styles or world views. Usage and ownership patterns of audio equipment, children's accounts of their audio media use and perceptions, and sensitive analyses of textual significance of characters, actions, and atmospheres are logical areas to be explored in future investigations. (CRH)