The Current Controversies series explores many social, political, and economic controversies, presenting the discussions in debate format. This volume focuses on youth violence. As youth violence escalates, concern grows over the safety of the neighborhoods, the victims of violence, and the future of violent youths themselves. The 35 selections in the 5 chapters of this book examine the root causes of why youths commit violence and social and legal proposals to reduce the problem. Each chapter contains "yes" and "no" answers to the question posed by the chapter title. The following chapters are included: (1) "Is Youth Violence a Serious Problem?"; (2) "What Causes Youth Violence?"; (3) "What Measures Can Reduce Youth Violence?"; (4) "How Can Gang Violence Be Reduced?"; and (5)"Should Violent Youths Receive Harsh Punishment?" A 16-item list of organizations to contact for further information is included. (Contains 3 graphs and 64 references.) (SLD)