Prior research has shown significant positive correlations between the density of the correctional population and the total number of assaults in the facility. The three models that have been developed to explain the effects of crowding on institutionalized youths are the interpersonal distance model, the stimulus overload model, and the control model. The interviews also showed that nearly all aspects of perceptions of personal safety showed a significant decrease under conditions of crowding. The data confirmed the conventional wisdom that crowding has a seriously negative effect on the conditions of confinement. Findings indicate the need for the American Correctional Association to investigate the relationship among conditions of confinement, standards compliance, and crowding and should join with its affiliates in juvenile corrections to warn all concerned with corrections that crowding undermines the conditions of confinement. In addition, the standard relating to crowding should be made mandatory. Figure and 24 references.