The article examines victimization resulting from the use of firearms, the perpetration of violence involving the use of firearms, and recent studies on the defensive use of guns against crime. It includes studies of firearm-related homicides, suicides, and unintentional fatal injuries. Particular issues for youth are gang violence and the accessibility of firearms. Finally, the article considers the implications of both epidemiological research and studies by right-to-bear-arms advocates for social policy and practice regarding firearms. This section of the article discusses enforcement of existing laws limiting the availability and use of firearms by young people; strengthening legislation on gun control; firearm owners' liability; improvements in firearm technology for safety; efforts to reduce violence in schools; and physician role in identification, prevention, and intervention. Firearms are only one agent contributing to youth violence. Their use, availability and misuse are embedded in other macro-system issues that need to be taken into account: the effects of poverty, unemployment, substance abuse, racism, lack of educational achievement, and the glamorous portrayal of violence in the media. References