In 1987, 1,717 seventh and ninth graders were surveyed in Northrhine-Westfalia (West Germany) to study anomic behavior. Analysis of the data suggests that adolescent failure in school, feelings of social status injustice, status disequilibrium in school, and the anticipated downward social mobility are manifested in destructive and aggressive behavior directed toward the environment. Delinquents attack social relationships and seek to destroy social bonds. Delinquency becomes an adaptation to school failure, and a cover for low self-esteem, thus school delinquency prevention programs should focus on the early developmental stages of delinquency. In the US, the project "Positive Action Through Holistic Education" (PATHE) was implemented in four middle and three high schools for three years. By involving youth in meaningful activities, it can lead them to believe that they are valued members of the school community, and the school is a legitimate and fair institution. 2 tables, 2 figures, 40 references.