Although violence and substance use are usually considered urban problems, rates of violence and substance use in rural areas are catching up to urban rates. This collection of six articles explores violence and substance use in rural America, the relationship between the two, the factors contributing to these problems, and effective preventive and intervention measures. The monograph dispels myths about rural communities; the chapters represent a variety of viewpoints and methodologies, but the fundamental premise of the book is that stereotypes about rural living are inaccurate. Before action can be taken to address problems in rural violence and drug use, misconceptions about rural areas must be overcome. The articles cover a variety of relevant issues: "Violence and Substance Abuse in Rural America" (John Blaser); "The Rural Context for Education: Adjusting the Images" (Daryl Hobbs); "Crime and Violence in Rural Communities" (Joseph F. Donnermeyer); "Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Use by Youth in Rural Communities" (Ruth W. Edwards); "A Community Comparison of 'Gang' Prevention Strategies" (Susan R. Takata); and "The Context of Rising Rates of Rural Violence and Substance Abuse: The Problems and Potential of Rural Communities" (Daryl Hobbs). Contains an annotated bibliography on school safety. (RJM)