It develops an explanation of reform based on variation in specific aspects of the adolescent experience and assesses the utility of the labeling perspective as a theoretical framework for organizing the various dimensions of this experience in the explanation of reform. The study contrasts delinquent reformers and nonreformers on the basis of variation in the intensity of both positive and negative labeling experiences, as these are mediated by several linkage and control factors suggested as important in the labeling literature. A cohort of delinquents with 15 years of followup offense data makes up the study population. Tables, figures, 20 footnotes, and about 170 references are provided. (Author abstract modified)