This book examines the threat to childhood development posed by living amid chronic community violence and the link between a child's response to growing up in an atmosphere of violence and danger and the social context established for that child by community and caregivers. The 11 chapters in the book are as follows: (1) "The Meaning of Danger in the Lives of Children" is an introductory essay; (2) "Children in War Zones: From Mozambique to Chicago" profiles the experience of children growing up in war zones in other countries, develops a preliminary look at trauma and development, and presents a model of accumulative childhood risk; (3) "The Developmental Toll of Inner-City Life" develops the argument that inner-city experiences can be compared to life in communities at war; (4) "Clinical Outcomes: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder" looks at research, responses to trauma, consequences, clinical outcomes, and institutional responses; (5) "Resilience and Coping in Children at Risk" considers the varying responses of children who are more resilient and less resilient; (6) "School as a Refuge: The Importance of Early Intervention" explains the key role that schools can play in helping children cope with violence; (7) "Ramon and His School: A Case Study" highlights the case of a 4-year-old boy with an alcoholic and violent father; (8) "Developing Supportive Settings for Children at Risk" outlines key school program components and the importance of school atmosphere; (9) "Helping Teachers Help Children" discusses the support teachers need; (10) "The Healing Role of Play and Art" discusses the importance of having children tell their own stories for healing; and (11) "Giving the Most to Those Who Need It" is an overview. Included are 238 references. (JB)