The research integrated variables that reflect unique sociocultural processes in Puerto Rican communities (acculturation and familism) with measures of social bonding and social learning. The effects of these socialization processes were analyzed to determine their contribution to juvenile delinquency or its avoidance. Results revealed that the increased risk of theft and violence by youths with higher levels of acculturation appears to be due to the loss or blurring of boundaries and roles in the structure of Puerto Rican families in which traditional cultural values are not upheld, family bonds are weakened, and contact with deviant peers increases. Familism, a measure of individuals' expressed concern with family values rather than individual opportunities, has powerful effects on the avoidance of deviance through family attachment, school commitment, and belief. This finding suggests that in addition to respect and affection (family attachment), familial values such as duty and obligation are relevant to adolescents¦ cultural situation. Figure, table, appended description of variables, and 82 references (Author abstract modified)