Based on the integrated model formed from the attribution theory and the social control theory (SCT), we examined how direct and indirect control, mediated by parental attachment, influence adolescent delinquent behaviours. This study interviewed 962 eighth graders (507 males and 455 females) from five different middle schools in Beijing, China, through a paper questionnaire survey in May, 2012. The findings of this study revealed that direct parental control (rule setting) increases adolescent delinquent behaviour, while indirect parental control (parental communication) only decreases delinquent behaviour among girls. Parental attachment, namely perceived closeness to parents, functions as a mediator in the relationship between indirect parental control and juvenile delinquency. Both direct maternal and paternal control increase delinquent behaviour among boys and indirect parental control exerts no effect on delinquent behaviour among boys. Meanwhile, direct paternal control increases delinquent behaviour while indirect maternal control reduces delinquent behaviour among girls. The practical implications of these findings on parenting are discussed.