Study participants were originally drawn from 11 schools serving the East Harlem area of New York City. Ethnicities of the participants were self-reported at the beginning of the study. At the time of followup, the sample included 275 male and 280 female older adolescents and young adults who ranged in age from 16 to 24 years. Individual interviews were conducted with the participants using a structured questionnaire. Information was collected according to the following domains: (1) adolescent personality drug-related variables; (2) family drug attitudes and behavior; (3) peer drug attitudes and behavior; (4) ecological context; and (5) Puerto Rican cultural values and identity. Statistical analysis showed cultural knowledge, being culturally active, group attachment, and identification with Puerto Ricans offset the impact of risks on drug use. Ethnic variables also enhanced the protective effect of other protective factors. Results substantiated expanding risk buffering models to include ethnic identity and the protective role of ethnic identity for Puerto Rican youth. 36 references and 3 tables