The result of this research clearly shows a link between certain types of precocious relationships and delinquency. However, the research demonstrates just how complex this relationship is. Different indicators of opposite sex relationships were uniquely linked to delinquency, for male versus female adolescents, and during different developmental periods. The study shows that adolescent opposite sex relationships constitute an important piece of the delinquency puzzle. This research seeks to examine a previously under researched area in the field of criminology: how opposite sex peer relationships are related to delinquent behavior. The general hypothesis investigated is that early dating and sexual activity may represent particularly important criminogenic risk factors for teen girls: more important than for boys of similar ages. Prior to the beginning of this investigation, it was important to understand the theory and prior research that has addressed the issue. Figures, tables, references, and index