Citation URL: http://www.urban.org/RuthWhite

This report was produced as part of the Strong Science for Strong Practice: Linking Research to Drug Treatment in the Criminal Justice System project, funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse. The project involved collecting and reviewing information on the extent of drug treatment need in correctional settings, how this need is identified and addressed, how the amount and quality of treatment can be improved, and how research can be targeted to assist with the implementation of science-based drug treatment practice. In addition to conducting a comprehensive literature review, the Strong Science for Strong Practice project included interviews with and a meeting of knowledgeable practitioners and researchers. This report provides a summary of the comprehensive literature review.

The falling rate of violent crime in the United States is not likely to reduce the need for effective policies and programs to address youth gun violence. The rate of firearm deaths among American youth is still one of the highest in the world. In the coming years, all levels of government, the private sector, and communities will require sound information and practical guidance as they try to reduce gun violence among young people. Funded by the Joyce Foundation, this report reviews recent trends in youth gun violence, policy responses to gun violence, and the growing variety of data resources for research on the effects of gun laws. The report is designed to inform discussions about these issues and to aid in the development of future research efforts.

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