The study found that most SVJ offenders are male and usually display early minor behavior problems that lead to more serious delinquent acts. The majority of SVJ offenders tend to have multiple problems such as substance abuse and mental health difficulties in addition to truancy, suspension, expulsion, and dropping out of school. Further, SVJ offenders are disproportionately victims of violence themselves. These findings suggest that children who are victims of maltreatment must be identified early and receive treatment. Further, parents, schools, mental health practitioners, and the juvenile justice community must work together to comprehensively screen and treat children at risk of developing serious disruptive behaviors. Teachers and parents must communicate regularly regarding problems the child is experiencing. The report strongly supports the U.S. office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention's emphasis on gang prevention, intervention, and suppression. These efforts must recognize that gang activity is no longer just a big city problem; that more programs must be established to reduce crime and target gangs and gang members; and that communities must undertake a localized, yet comprehensive approach in assessing their gang problem and developing strategies and solutions. For the full report, see NCJ-177602.