Central topics of adolescence are discussed in this reader, status transitions and coping strategies of young people in Germany and The Netherlands. Based on several research projects from both countries, qualitative as well as quantitative and longitudinal, the contributions cover the perspectives of psychology, pedagogy and cultural sociology. Part one presents research on a classic theme in adolescence sciences, status transitions. Part two discusses a cross-cultural project from three European regions. Part three focuses on the nature and magnitude of emotional and behavioural problems and risk behaviour as well as on their interpersonal and social correlates. The last section introduces youth information as a new educational concept in order to help modern youth in their orientation in an increasingly complex world.