The causes of increased violence against children and self-inflicted violence are not fully understood. In young children the increase in homicide may represent a more accurate identification of child abuse. In all cases the problem of child homicide is extremely complex and involves numerous social, economic, and other influences. Prevention lies in better understanding of the social and psychologic factors that lead to the high rates of homicide and suicide. Nurses need to be especially aware of young people who are depressed, repeatedly in trouble with the criminal justice system, or associated with groups known to be violent. Prevention requires identification of these young people and therapeutic intervention by qualified professionals.