Explanations of the reasons for the nature and timing of terrorist violence and the internal dynamics of terrorist groups are presented. The wife of an American ambassador held hostage for 61 days describes the psychological reactions of the hostage and the family both during and after the 1980 incident. Trends in terrorism and governmental responses to it are described by British and Israeli officials, who also recommend components that should be included in any response to terrorism. Italy's experience with temporary legislation that provided a means for terrorists to dissociate themselves from their groups is examined. A high-level police official in Belfast, Northern Ireland, explains the links between the Provisional Irish Republican Army and foreign countries and argues that the organization is almost totally dependent on foreign support. The responses of multinational corporations to international terrorism is described. The use of the law as a deterrent and the problem of state-sponsored terrorism are also examined. Reference lists and notes are included. For individual presentations, see NCJ 98705-11.