The study provides a detailed ethnographic account of youth gang activity and the relationship between gangs and the general community in light of the popular media imagery of the gang problem. It elaborates some of the common perceptions of juvenile gangs which emerged in press reports, through extensive consultation in one locality. Research involved a multi-method approach to gain an understanding of the different problems posed by the groups for different members of the community. Included in the research approach were data-gathering sessions with professionals and others who have regular contact with young people; schools, the public transport authority; youth services; ethnic and migrant services; members of the Victoria Police; young people themselves; and local shopkeepers. Research also included analysis of media accounts over the 3 years preceding the study to illustrate the range of public discourse focusing on the gang phenomenon. Table, references, notes