This is one of the finest detective dramas on TV; it focuses on the crimes and motivations of the killers behind each episode's murders. The opening scene generally features the preamble to, and often depiction of, the actual murder (unlike the original Law & Order, which commences with the victim's body being discovered); this can make for a very intense and unsettling experience for the less mature viewer. A lot of the violence is implied rather than explicit, but nonetheless the show's production values lend it a very deep psychological element that, once again, may be more than a younger viewer may find comfortable. I think that smart teens will have little difficulty with this show, providing suitable adult input and feedback is available. As with all L&O series, there is a strong ensemble cast who provide the lynchpin to the formula and I believe that these central characters provide a generally positive social and moral element that most young viewers can either identify with or aspire towards. Most positively, the killers are (almost) always trapped and revealed by the detectives - sending a strong message of right vs wrong - and Det. Robert Goren's character specializes in psychologically undermining the criminal. The result of this is to demonstrate the power of intelligent, disciplined thought and observation; character strengths which all of us can benefit greatly from in life. Det. Alex Eames counters this with warmth, humanity and a strong sense of justice. Despite the dark territory that this show frequently enters, I would recommend this show for teens as an excellent example of a very strong central character portrayed by a gifted actor in Vincent D'onofrio's Detective Robert Goren, who is easily the most compelling character in any TV drama of recent years - he is fiercely intelligent, driven and intense, yet can also be disarmingly playful in his various strategies to get under the criminal's skin. He absolutely makes this show! A hugely rewarding experience for the more grown-up teenage viewer or adult!