Violent Crime Rate Increases with Juveniles

In 2005, the serious violent crime offending rate was 17 crimes per 1,000 juveniles ages 12-17, up from 14 crimes per 1,000 in 2004. The report noted that while the 2005 rate is "somewhat higher" than the 2004 rate, it is significantly lower than the 1993 peak rate of 52 crimes per 1,000 juveniles ages 12-17.

"The level of youth violence in society can be viewed as an indicator of youths' ability to control their behavior, and the adequacy of socializing agents such as families, peers, schools, and religious institutions to supervise or channel youth behavior to acceptable norms," the report explained.

This year's report included a new indicator on sexual activity. The rate of high school students who reported ever having had sexual intercourse remained at 47 percent from 2003 to 2005, a decline from the rate of 54 percent in 1991. The report noted that early sexual activity is associated with emotional and physical health risks.