Self-report instruments and observer-rated instruments were also used in the study. Subjects were age 13, 14, and 15 years and were drawn from 150 consecutive admissions to the facility. All had committed at least one felony. Results showed that 28 of the 120 subjects met the research diagnostic criteria for a major depressive disorder. The 28 depressed delinquents were demographically similar to the 92 nondepressed delinquents. Self-ratings of depression did not separate the two groups. No pattern of antisocial behavior or acting out behavior differentiated the depressed group, although the depressed group did relate more of their problems to drug and alcohol abuse. Moreover, a depressed or alcoholic family member was a significant predictor of depression. Findings indicated that workers dealing with delinquents should be aware that depression may affect a significant subgroup of their clients. Clinical research on responses to treatment and longterm followup of these adolescents are needed. Tables and 31 references are included.