A two-dimensional finite-element computational procedure is developed for the accurate analysis of the strains and stresses in adhesively bonded joints. The large displacements and rotations experienced by the adherends and the adhesive are taken into account by invoking the updated Lagrangian description of motion. The adhesive layer is modeled using Schapery's nonlinear single integral constitutive law for uniaxial and multiaxial states of stress. Effect of temperature and stress level on the viscoelastic response is taken into account by a nonlinear shift factor definition. Penetrant sorption is accounted for by a nonlinear Fickean diffusion model in which the diffusion coefficient is dependent on the penetrant concentration and the dilatational strain. A delayed failure criterion based on the Reiner-Weisenberg failure theory has also been implemented in the finite element code. The applicability of the proposed models is demonstrated by several numerical examples. / Doctor of Philosophy