Many interpretations are possible of J.D. Salinger's Holden Caulfield, the narrator of his novel The Catcher in the Rye. However, by observing Holden's behavior patterns, one will notice his tendency to act inappropriately. For one thing, he is unable to be mature and handle various situations properly. In addition, he repeatedly makes rather destructive decisions; disregarding the fact he knows his actions are wrong. Holden's behavior exhibits that of a juvenile delinquent because of his immaturity and distasteful habits.

Holden, throughout the story, repeatedly exhibits immature behavior. He, most of all, is very critical of those around him. He constantly scrutinizes others and most often, considers them "phonies." Although he thinks of most of the people who surround him as phonies, he chooses to interact with such people. For example, he takes an ex-girlfriend of his, Sally, on a date to see a show. "[He doesn't] want...