"A powerful and important book that explains the epidemic rise and complex underlying causes of youth violence, and opens a discussion on strategies to protect our children from physical and emotional harm." Our children are our future. Yet every day, new reports come in describing violent assaults against youths, or dramatic increases in gang recruitment of teens, or the terrible, hostile environments children are forced to grow up in. Teen Violence in America is a careful examination of the causes of this epidemic rise in youth violence. But more than that, it opens a discussion on strategies that have been proven most effective for protecting our children from physical and emotional harm. Each of us has a responsibility to do all we can to ensure that children are raised happy, healthy and emotionally whole. Change is needed, as is a renewed commitment to our youth—and the only way that can happen is if we understand the dangers our children face in their daily lives. Teen Violence in America identifies those circumstances that place youths at risk for violent behavior, what ignites this predilection into violent action, and identifies strategies that can be employed to mitigate the damage and put them on a positive life track. From family life to school environment and opportunities, cultural and political influences, drugs and gangs, Teen Violence in America looks deeply into the different factors contributing to this epidemic.