The literature on adolescent risk is reviewed, a model of risk that emphasizes risk antecedents and markers is proposed, and an overview is presented of an emerging service delivery strategy that integrates services, emphasizes interagency coordination, and addresses the full range of service needs for youth at risk. Highlights of programs currently in operation are described.

Adolescence often involves some degree of experimentation. Most adolescents experiment by trying out a variety of work, recreational, and role identities before making a commitment to a given set of values and vocations (Marcia, 1987). Some, however, may experiment with negative role identities, such as gang membership; criminal and violent acts; early, unprotected sexual intercourse; drug or alcohol abuse; and truancy from school. Among those who engage in these more risky forms of behavior, some still manage to become productive and successful adults. Many others remain marginal members of society. The challenge lies in identifying adolescents who are likely to develop problems that prevent them from becoming useful and productive citizens. In recent years, this challenge has been conceptualized in terms of the notion of “risk.”

There is a great deal of confusion around the definition of risk in adolescence. Risk connotes a given probability that a youth will display problems, but it does not imply certainty. In assessing risk, the aim is to predict the future course of events in a young person's life—ideally, to classify adolescents as being at “high” or “low” risk so as to tailor early intervention and prevention strategies for those at greatest risk. This is especially important in planning services during times of budgetary cutbacks, when resources are limited. Thus, the definition of risk is not simply an academic exercise; it has implications for our assumptions about prevention strategies.

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