Children forced to cope with chronic danger may adapt in many ways that are dysfunctional. These include identification with the perpetrators of the violence, since they appear to have the power and control in the community; the development of "terminal thinking," in which violent death is believed to be inevitable for them; the emergence of defensive, aggressive behaviors; and emotional withdrawal. These adaptations ill-equip a child to believe in the importance of planning for the future, to develop nonviolent strategies for problemsolving, and to trust in the existence of a safe and caring environment. Parents may aggravate dysfunctional behaviors in the child by reinforcing the child's fears, by using harsh punitive measures to control maladaptive behaviors, and by failing to listen to the child's feelings. The therapy of choice in situations of chronic danger is one which builds upon the child's primary relationships. The goal is to create a new positive reality for the child that intercepts and diminishes the impact of chronic violence. Schools, churches, and neighborhood youth clubs must work with parents to cultivate a climate of caring and safety that fosters enlightened moral reasoning regarding adaptations to the threat of violence.