Right-wing extremist orientations are characterized by the convergence of ideologies of unequal worth and the acceptance of violence as a mode of action. The devaluation of social minorities can be interpreted as a step on the road to a right-wing extremist orientation, especially where hostile attitudes unite with approval of and willingness to use violence. However, hostile attitudes and right-wing orientations do not automatically lead to acts of violence. But the upward trend in right-wing extremist crime statistics and studies of crime suspects, outlined in this article, suggest that the existence of these convictions in society helps to legitimize attitudes that become expressed in violence, by adolescents. This article also analyzes the issue using a five-stage process model that portrays the underlying preconditions for acts of right-wing extremist violence, the contexts in which such violence takes place, and the factors that cause it to escalate. In addition, central findings from German research about right-wing extremist violent offenders are outlined. Finally, the article examines right-wing extremist violence from the perspective of social disintegration theory. 2 figures, 1 table, and 40 notes