Abstract: A qualitative in-depth interview study explored the experiences of incarcerated young African American between the ages of 18 and 21 as to what led to the commitment of a violent act and the role of anger in this act. The interview data were analyzed for themes and categories that would capture these young men experiences. The results indicated that a turning point occurred prior to the first time that the young men got into trouble. These were awareness of a father's absence, awareness of a mother's drug addiction and the death of a significant person. The 'getting into trouble' seemed related to the awareness of addicted or absent parents and was followed by a failure in school and the perception that life had changed. Two themes of fitting-in/belonging and feeling safe were embedded in the data. Other findings included the young men's affiliation with one of three groups. The theme of group membership, regardless of the group, was belonging. The three groups of significance to the young men were membership in: an older-age group of peers, a gang or some involvement in what the young men called the 'family business'. The role of anger was not clear and needs further investigation. Recommendations for practice and further research are made. The implications of this study is that the risk factors for violence are given a human face which would enhance programs aimed at reducing violence among African American youth.