Following a chapter on the definition and extent of delinquency, a chapter on the history of juvenile justice is presented, followed by an explanation of biological and psychological explanations of delinquency. A chapter on the various sociological explanations for delinquency encompasses learning theory, subcultural theories, routine activities and rational choice theories, social control theory, strain theory, conflict theories, and the labeling perspective. The integration and elaboration of theories are addressed, along with the impact of theories on juvenile justice. Other chapters provide overviews of gang delinquency, drugs and delinquency, police policies and use of discretion in relation to juveniles, the juvenile court process, the due process rights of juveniles, and juvenile diversion programs. Remaining chapters focus on institutional and residential interventions, community interventions, the victimization of juveniles, and the future of the juvenile justice system. This edition includes material on many current issues in juvenile justice, including the death penalty for juveniles, the extent of racism in the system, what to do with violent juveniles, the effectiveness of DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) programs, corporal punishment, and school crime. A summary and discussion questions accompany each chapter. An instructor's guide is provided with the text; it contains chapter summaries, test bank questions, and suggestions for classroom activities and videos to supplement the text. 980 references, a glossary, and subject, author, and court-case indexes