Integrating Mainstream and Subcultural Explanations of Drug Use Among Puerto Rican Youth

Abstract

The broad question of how to integrate mainstream and subcultural explanations of drug use and other problem behaviors is addressed. An integrated social control model was examined with inner-city Puerto Rican youth. The model did apply to drug use and delinquency. Adherence to traditional Hispanic culture provides some protection against dysfunctional behavior.

Key Words:

• Drug use
• Theory
• Puerto Rico
• Hispanic
• Culture
• Social control