The analysis of crime and deviance over the life course is based on data obtained by Sheldon and Eleanor Glueck's study of 500 delinquents and 500 nondelinquents from childhood to adulthood. These data were used by the current authors to develop a theory of informal social control over the life course that integrates three ideas: (1) social bonds to family and school inhibit delinquency in childhood and adolescence; (2) there is continuity in antisocial and deviant behavior from childhood through adulthood across various dimensions, such as crime, alcohol abuse, divorce, and unemployment; and (3) despite continuities, attachment to the labor force and marriage sharply mitigate criminal activities. The authors acknowledge the importance of childhood behavior and individual differences but reject the implication that social factors have little relevance. They seek to account for both stability and change in crime and deviance throughout the life course by focusing on the family context of juvenile delinquency; the role of school, peers, and siblings; continuity in behavior over time; adult social bonds and changes in criminal behavior; comparative models of crime and deviance; and life histories. Interviews with the Gluecks' original research staff are appended. References, notes, tables, and figures