Strengthening America's Families.

Delinquency and violence are rooted in a number of interrelated social problems, including child abuse and neglect, early sexual involve- ment and teen pregnancy, alcohol and drug abuse, youth conflict and ag- gression, family violence, gang participation, and insufficient education. Often, these problems are inadequately addressed in the family environ- ment or may even have originated within the family itself. Because fami- lies are the first point of a child’s social contact, it is essential that parents understand the critical role they play in their children’s development and that they be equipped with the information and skills necessary to raise healthy and well-adapted children. Improving parenting practices and the family environment is the most effective and enduring strategy for combating juvenile delinquency and associated behavioral, social, and emotional problems. Accordingly, society should promote learning opportunities for successful parenting.