The characteristics of a representative sample of 207 14-15 year-old imprisoned juveniles were determined from an examination of their personal files. These juveniles are typically from lower class broken homes and were in institutional care before being imprisoned. Most had been imprisoned for a theft offense. Interviews with some of the juveniles indicate that their early deviancy was due to an emotionally deprived family and social environment. The reaction of the schools and welfare institutions to the deviance was to apply repressive measures. These having failed to correct the deviant behavior, imprisonment was the final result. Prison perpetuates the coercion, humiliation, and social deprivation experienced by these juveniles from their early years, such that it only reinforces and intensifies their view of themselves and the world. What is needed for these youths is a response by community and criminal justice agencies that will counter rather than confirm these youths previous abusive experiences. The biographies of three of the youths interviewed are presented. 11 references.