While crime is a matter of grave concern in South Africa; crime involving juvenile offenders is particularly so. Nevertheless; juvenile crime is on the increase; as is the degree of violence that accompanies juvenile offences. Furthermore; instances of sexual offences among children are occurring more frequently; and children are also increasingly being trafficked and used as sex workers or slaves. The sexual abuse of children and neglect are rife; and many children grow up in a very unforgiving environment that never allows them the opportunity to develop morally according to the prescriptions of a democratic society. This is somewhat out of kilter with the almost schizoid emphasis on children’s rights and the legal prescriptions that have been specifically developed for children. Specific laws are promulgated but many of the children of South Africa still bear the brunt of a callous attitude towards their existence by some role players in their lives. Child and youth misbehaviour in South Africa aims to address the complex and poorly understood phenomenon of juvenile misbehaviour. Various theories on the nature and causes for the behaviour are discussed and analysed; and assessed critically with regard to their applicability to South Africa. In order to understand the youth misbehaviour problem as it manifests in this country; it is essential that the position of youths is understood.