Most juvenile delinquents have experienced one or more of the following: physical and/or sexual abuse, inconsistent parenting, love deprivation, double messages, and poor educational mastery. These precursors contribute to the development of poor social skills, confrontational attitudes, fear of pain and medical procedures, macho behavior, spreading of rumors, concrete thinking, manipulative behavior, answer-seeking, and a low tolerance of frustration. Appropriate responses from health care providers can often temporarily suppress unwanted behaviors and allow useful communication with the patient. By understanding the roots of "bad" behaviors, health care providers can avoid negative responses and have relaxed interactions with detained juveniles. Pitfalls health care providers should avoid when treating juvenile delinquents are noted, and the importance of reinforcing positive behaviors is emphasized. 34 references