The study examines data from 2,489 cases taken from the juvenile court records of 6 New Jersey counties. The sample was stratified by sex and offense type to ensure sufficient numbers for multivariate analysis. Two variables measured the socioemotional status of the juveniles. Other variables included race, family configuration, and complaint sources. The study finds that white female juveniles living with one parent, reported by their parents, and determined to be Juveniles In Need of Supervision (JINS) were more likely to be placed in detention. Black and Hispanic juveniles were more likely to be detained if they lived with two parents, while white juveniles were more likely to be detained if they lived with one parent. The government is more likely to act in parens patriae toward white than toward minority juveniles. The study's findings provide mixed support for the protectionist approach in making decisions about the detention of juveniles. 32 references.