The diverse research on the patterns and characteristics of violent behavior in the United States is assessed by a panel of experts in this monograph. The monograph describes what is known about certain types of violence, details insights into risk factors for violence in individuals and situations, and recommends new research efforts with short- and long-term outcomes. Part I focuses on violent human behavior. It includes chapters on the diversity of violent human behavior and patterns of violence in American society. Part II focuses on understanding violence. It includes chapters on the perspectives on violence; alcohol, other psychoactive drugs, and violence; violence in families; and firearms and violence. Part III focuses on harnessing understanding to improve control. It includes chapters on expanding the limits of understanding and control and recommendations for understanding and controlling violent human behavior. References are included with each chapter. Tables, graphs, and references are included throughout the monograph. The appendices include articles on the development of an individual potential for violence and measuring and counting violent crimes and their consequences. Biographies of members of the panel of experts are included. (ABL)