Recent school shootings are only one symptom of a greater problem--a toxic social environment that breeds isolation and rage among children. This book looks at the wide range of risk factors and indicators for violence and translates the findings into an effective prevention and intervention system. The Peace Power strategy is based on four core principles--Recognize Contributions and Successes, Act with Respect, Share Power to Build Community, and Make Peace. By design, these inexpensive and simple techniques have a strong behavioral science support. Simultaneously, the Peace Power system takes a practical approach that respects the divergent cultures and values in our society. This method recognizes that, while the coercive and threatening aspects of modern life expose children and families to dramatically increased stresses, we can find peaceful solutions to strengthen our communities. (Contains 199 references.) (GCP)