To focus more clearly on current juvenile justice activities and problems, the book opens with an historical look at the evolution of juvenile justice. Topics considered in this section include the definition of delinquency, the nature and extent of juvenile crime, the profile of the youthful offender, and the history, philosophy, and function of the juvenile court. The book's second major section explores contemporary activities, problems, and influences relating to the administration of juvenile justice within the community. Attention is given to the legal aspects of the juvenile court, subsystems of the juvenile court, juvenile justice and the police, juvenile probation, and juvenile corrections. In the third section, particular attention is given to management, organization, fragmentation, and practitioners in the field of juvenile justice. Specific topics covered include status offenders, female delinquency, delinquency prevention, the impact of family and schools on juvenile delinquency, police services for juveniles, and special problems, such as gangs, drug abuse, and sex offenses. In exploring the future of juvenile justice in the epilogue, information is presented not only about justice problems to be faced but also about sociological and psychological change and its impact on the juvenile justice system. Chapter instructional aids include summaries, practical exercises, and annotated references at the conclusion of each chapter. Author and subject indexes are also provided.