The behavior of earthquake-resistant reinforced concrete frame connections has been researched extensively over the past 30 years, but conflicting interpretations of the underlying physical problem and differences of opinion in defining acceptable performance criteria still pervade almost every aspect of connection behavior and design. This study explores the mechanics of reinforced concrete beam-column joints under lateral loads, with the aim to assess the parametric dependence of the behavior of these elements for the benefit of design. In the course of the study, published experimental information from around the world and results from a number of novel analytical studies are considered collectively in an attempt to broaden the scope and depth of the parametric description of joint mechanics. Apart from improved understanding of the physical problem, the most important outcome of this research is to formulate simple tools for design of earthquake-resisting beam-column connections using a consistent mechanics approach. Key words: beam-column connection, database, earthquake-resistant design, finite element analysis, reinforced concrete, shear strength, stirrups.