Several studies have shown that a substantial proportion of urban children are routinely exposed to violent incidents, including murder, and are themselves victims of violence. The increases in drug use, single-parent families, and unemployment in the inner city are further signs of social disorder. Family breakdown is clearly the most important source of our current social problems and will result in further juvenile lawlessness without major interventions. These interventions should include improved family support, strengthened school discipline, and longer prison sentences for lawbreakers. These efforts would reflect the recognition that children need order, just as they need love.