The Facts

ONE
The youth violence epidemic of the early 1990s is not over. Confidential self-reports show that the numbers of young people involved in some violent behaviors remain at epidemic levels.

TWO
Most children with mental and behavioral disorders do not become violent as adolescents.

THREE
Most children who are abused or neglected will not become violent.

FOUR
Most self-report data show that race and ethnicity have little bearing on a young person’s participation in nonfatal violent behavior.

FIVE
Juvenile offenders tried in adult criminal courts and incarcerated in prisons are more likely to commit felonies after release than young people who remain in the juvenile justice system.

SIX
A number of prevention and early intervention programs that meet very high scientific standards of effectiveness have been identified.

SEVEN
Weapons-related injuries in schools have not increased dramatically in the last 5 years. Compared to neighborhoods and homes, schools nationwide are relatively safe places for young people.

EIGHT
Most young people involved in violent behavior will never be arrested for a violent crime.