The origin, development, and operation of the juvenile court and the juvenile justice system are traced. Issues in measuring delinquency are considered in relation to official statistics, victimization surveys, and national surveys of self-reported delinquency. Discussion focuses on variations in delinquency by class, race, and gender are discussed; patterns of delinquency and delinquent careers, and factors influencing juvenile case processing and court decisionmaking. Major theories of delinquency causation are reviewed, including social disorganization, social control, strain, subculture, differential association, cultural conflict, biological, and psychological perspectives. The correctional process is described, and its effectiveness is assessed. Alternatives to incarceration are reviewed, including deinstitutionalization, diversion programs, community treatment, and prevention. A final chapter summarizes major conclusions that can be drawn from the study of delinquency. Chapter summaries, references, and index.