Because different Latino subpopulations are geographically concentrated, local service providers find they must respond to the needs of specific Latino subgroups. Acquiring accurate information about alcohol and other substance use patterns among Latino youth is complicated by difficulties in accessing a sufficiently large or representative sample of these young people. Studies show considerable variance in the prevalence of alcohol use among Latino youth, as well as differences in the age of first use. Factors influencing alcohol use among Latino adolescents are similar to those influencing other youth. Such factors include family drinking behavior and peer use of alcohol. Research among Latinos shows a very clear gender difference, with adult males having a much greater tendency to drink and to drink more heavily than females. Further research is needed to explore socialization practices of Latino subgroups with regard to alcohol use and to examine Latino adolescent alcohol use in the bicultural context. In the interest of providing helping professionals with data on which to base culturally relevant prevention and intervention programs for Latino adolescents, the author recommends a broader spectrum of research methodologies than is currently being utilized. 46 references.