Rage is an internal state of extreme anger; it cannot be observed directly, although rage can be expressed through facial expressions, language, physiological signs, and violent action. Violence is overt action that can easily be observed; it is action that harms, threatens harm, or intimidates with the threat of harm. The experience of rage in childhood and adolescence is developmentally normal. Children and youth experience and observe social injustice, and they must conform to rules for children while they are attempting to become adults. Scathing commentary and open rebellion are expected as part of the process of growing from child to adult. The most significant influences that determine whether the normal rage of developing children and youth break out into dangerous violence are the family, the peer group, the media, access to weapons, school structure, and community and culture. This article discusses how each of these factors can either promote or prevent rage from erupting into violence. An effective combination of approaches that address the family, peer group, media, access to weapons, school structure, and community and culture will lead to improved prognoses for youth who are predisposed toward conduct disorders or emotional disturbance. Some strategies are suggested in this article. 27 references