Subjects were 1,174 nondelinquent children and 172 delinquent children in 5 prefectures all over Japan. The study compared the two groups concerning broken family, going to amusements sometimes only with friends versus being accompanied also by a parent, the amount of allowance received, attitudes toward school lessons, relationships with parents, and attitudes toward family. Results indicate that major factors influencing delinquency in primary school children are broken family, lower economic status, and withdrawal of love at home. In addition, a new factor -- children going to recreation centers and department stores with their peers -- seems to be causing problems such as a maladjusted social life. Tables and references are supplied. (Author abstract modified)