Focusing on juvenile delinquency in America, the text examines the definition of delinquency and ways of measuring the problem of delinquency (i.e., through official and unofficial measures, including self-report studies, victimization surveys, and life histories). The theoretical framework of juvenile delinquency studies is then described by examining the theories that seek to explain delinquency. These include individual theories of delinquency, social structure approaches, social process concepts, social reaction theories (e.g., labeling and conflict theory), and theories of female delinquency. A discussion of environmental influences on delinquency covers such areas as peers, the juvenile gang, schools, and family. The text then presents an overview of the juvenile justice system, describes the history and philosophy of juvenile justice, and analyzes the legal rights of juveniles who are processed by social control agencies. A discussion of the major Supreme Court decisions that set forth the constitutional requirements for juvenile proceedings precedes a review of lower court decisions throughout the juvenile process. The juvenile court structure and the issue of juvenile court jurisdiction are also examined. The text explores how children who commit crimes and status offenses are handled by police, courts, and correctional agencies. It emphasizes police discretion with juveniles, detention problems and diversion programs, and the role and functions of the attorneys and judge during juvenile trial and disposition. Additional topics include postadjudication procedures for juveniles, community treatment, and institutionalization. Finally, the rights of minors are reviewed, and the concept of a bill of rights for children is discussed. A glossary, excerpts from the U.S. Constitution, and a historical survey of children's rights are appended. A name and subject index, chapter footnotes and references, discussion questions, suggested readings, data tables, and illustrations are provided. (Author abstract modified)