The declaration's general approach emphasizes a communitywide strategy of crime prevention and control that involves agencies responsible for housing, social services, recreation, schools, policing, and justice. Crime causes are identified as poverty, unemployment, lack of affordable decent housing, and an unresponsive education system; a growing underclass unable to enter the socioeconomic mainstream; the disintegration of communities and families; destruction of native cultures; and changes in cities' physical environment. Suggestions pertaining to children include provision of prenatal and postnatal care and nutrition assistance, and making day care available. Recommendations for youth pertain to education, work-skill acquisition, health, and recreation. Other recommendations address family violence, housing and urban development, drug abuse prevention, police and criminal justice, professional training, communications, national leadership, and international action.