Introduction

This chapter introduces the reader to the three studies that will be used throughout the book to illustrate key behaviors and risks associated with violent adolescent offending. It will consider how researchers define aggression, violence, coercion, youth violence, and juvenile delinquency. The scope of familial, peer, and psychosocial risks are considered alongside offending behaviors, and a case study involving a young person who became involved in the trafficking of drugs is explored in detail. The chapter also critically considers different data sources available to youth justice professionals and researchers.