This document consists of Part 2 of a book of readings on at-risk youth designed to provide information and strategies for counselors, teachers, parents, administrators, social workers, and others who work with youth at risk. Part 2 contains five readings on causal factors related to at-risk behaviors. "The Harmful Effects of Dysfunctional Family Dynamics" (Artis Palmo & Linda Palmo) presents information on the effect of family dynamics on the development of at-risk behaviors in youth, therapeutic treatment modalities for dysfunctional families, the use of referral and consultation with families of at-risk children, and the process of assessment with families of at-risk youth. "Bodily Assault: Physical and Sexual Abuse" (Robert Rencken) presents the incidence and effects of physical and sexual abuse, the dynamics of the youthful offender, and strategies for intervention. "'Who Cares What I Think?': Problems of Low Self-Esteem" (Sandra Meggert) examines low self-esteem as a primary cause of at-risk behavior and provides a framework and strategies to aid in creating positive levels of self-esteem. "When Life Seems Darkest: Adolescent Depression" (J. Jeffries McWhirter & Benedict McWhirter) addresses the symptoms, causes, and treatment of adolescent depression. "The Society We Live In: Stress and Coping" (Art Terry & Sylvia Milliken) provides information related to the stress response mechanism; explores the daily stressors of youth as these relate to biological, developmental, and individual relationships; and provides application and intervention techniques as well as recommendations and suggestions for program implementation. (NB)