The assumptions that gave rise to this discrepancy include: (1) female delinquency is equated with sexual promiscuity and is symptomatic of maladjustment and social isolation; (2) family factors exert a more powerful influence on female than male delinquents; (3) girls do not form strong same-sex friendships; and (4) in mixed-sex groups, girls are influenced by boys rather than other girls. Girls, though less frequently and less seriously delinquent than boys, show a very similar patterning in the rank order of offenses they commit. They do not specialize in the status offenses for which they have been stigmatized any more than do boys. The impact of family variables on delinquency is about equal for both sexes as is the impact of peers. In future research, same and opposite sex relationships should be examined for both boys and girls in relation to gendered differences in group interactions. 1 note and 75 references (Author abstract modified)