During the 1950's, most of the attention on juvenile delinquency concentrated on males. However, the incidence of female delinquency has escalated in recent years. Female delinquency a generation ago centered mainly on sexual misconduct; today, much greater numbers of females are involved in armed robbery, gang activity, drug trafficking, burglary, weapons possession, aggravated assault, and prostitution. Research on the causes of this behavior is inconclusive. Theories variously center around dysfunctional families, victimization, aggression, neglect, rejection, physical and sexual abuse, self-perception, gender role, and intellectual ability. The available data indicate the need for more research on female delinquency and greater efforts at developing programs and services to assist these youths to cope with personal, educational, and employment concerns. 28 references (Author abstract modified)