The article notes that the common temptations for gun carrying by youth include protection during drug dealing; protection from disrespect; and protection from repeated aggression and bullying. Gun handling produced two diverse responses, fear and excitement. The interviews conducted revealed a dangerous form of gunplay known as “flossing” and cognitive distortions of peer attitudes toward carriers. Flossing was characterized as the casual handling or firing of a firearm, and an interim step between intentional posturing and automatic behavior. The findings show that firearms homicide is one of the leading causes of death of young people in America, and present a qualitative investigation of youth temptations, emotional reactions, and subsequent behavior with respect to guns. Results of this work suggest the need to promote normal adolescent development through increased social opportunities, reduced exposure to guns, and empowerment of bystanders to prevent the escalation of conflict. Twenty-three youth enrolled in a community-based firearm reduction program participated in interviews on retrospective experiences with guns. Youth were recruited from various locales through a peer-educator training program sponsored by the North Philadelphia Firearms Reduction Initiative. Thirty members, 20 males and 10 females, ranging in age from 13 to 18 years of age attended the program. Results are said to be limited due to the small number, age, and selection of respondents and retrospective methodology. References