The study investigated changes in reported ATOD use from 1987 to 1991, and explored and identified the most salient risk and protective factors. Significant decreases were found for use of most drugs, with the exception of alcohol. Involvement in problem behaviors was the most salient risk factor, while having a member of a non-using peer group was the most salient protective factor. Adolescents from suburban communities may be at greater risk than other communities because of the hidden nature of ATOD use. Adolescents from families with money and power may resist intervention and, without continual monitoring and community-wide prevention efforts, the ATOD problem is likely to go unnoticed. The article includes data on trends in use of alcohol, cigarettes, inhalants, marijuana, cocaine, stimulants, depressants and narcotics. Tables, references