The so-called social problem of youth violence appears with reliable regularity in sensational media portrayals, scientific discussions, and political campaigns. In this context, for example, pedagogy attempts to steer young people away from undesirable behaviors using gentle methods, while in politics, the worst-case scenario involves calls for stricter youth criminal laws. But why and since when has youth violence been discussed? Rather than being an actual threat, the social construction of youth violence, upon closer inspection, seems to be driven more by particular interests and sensationalism. Kristina Van Bommel explores the complications and contradictions that arise when scientific disciplines and helping professions unreflectively adopt the public outrage over a supposed threat.