A stratified random sample of 190 institutionalized delinquent youths was selected for the study. Dimensions of chronicity included number of current offenses, number of prior offenses, combined number of current and prior offenses, and number of adjudicated felonies. Pearson correlation techniques were used to examine relationships between independent variables and offense chronicity measures. Variables found to have significant relationships with criterion measures were then submitted to factor analysis to identify interrelated structures of psychosocial variables. A seven-factor model was produced that offered a paradigm for psychosocial elements of chronic juvenile delinquency. Application of the model indicated that family functioning, defined as the degree of affectionate bonding between youth and parents, significantly contributed to all dimensions of delinquency. Other factors related to delinquency included number of out-of-home placements in institutions and foster homes, abuse in foster home and institutional placements, commission of delinquent acts with peers and siblings, drug use during offense commission, poor school attendance, and early age at first adjudication. Implications of the findings for juvenile risk assessment and appropriate juvenile justice interventions for delinquent youth are discussed. 13 references, 3 tables, and 1 figure