The study tested control theory using protective effects of personal and social assets and risk effects of personal deficits on deviant behaviors of drug use, delinquency, truancy, and weapons possession. It used structural equations modeling to analyze data from a population of students in grades 6 through 12 in Colorado (N = 13,207). Second-order factors of assets and deficits explained deviant behavior. Findings were consistent for subgroups of young men and women in both middle school and high school. Overall, results demonstrate the efficacy of control theory for all subgroups. Findings emphasize the utility of positive and negative controls. Currently, assets and deficits are being conceptualized as properties of communities, and partnerships of institutions such as family, school, local government, church, and business are being formed to make these communities more conducive to personal growth among youth. Table, figures, references