The Catcher in the Rye has been frequently challenged since its publication in 1951. Though it is a coming-of-age novel relevant to the experiences of teenagers coming to grips with the confusing world of adulthood, the graphic language and mature themes of the book often put off concerned parents.

In 1960, an Oklahoma teacher was fired for trying to use the novel in her eleventh-grade class. Though she was reinstated, the novel was banned from the school. Between 1986 and 2000, the book has been successfully banned from three different schools due to its profanity and sexual references. Other common complaints include Holden's using religiously-charged profanity (e.g., taking the Lord's name in vain) and the novel's supposed "immoral" themes.

The book has also gained notoriety for its association with famous shootings. Mark David Chapman purchased a copy of the novel and wrote in the pages about how he identified with Holden before he murdered musician John Lennon in 1980. Stalker Robert John Bardo killed actress Rebecca Schaeffer while carrying a copy of the book on his person. Because of these associations, some assume the novel will drive the young and impressionable to dangerous behavior.

Regardless of these challenges, The Catcher in the Rye remains a commonly taught novel in high school classes and one of the most influential coming-of-age stories of all time.