This study looked at the delineation of significant relationships between cognitive abilities (crystallized and fluid intelligence), coping strategies (approaches and avoidance), purpose in life, and polydrug use (alcohol, cigarettes, cannabis, illicit drug use) among a community sample of adolescents. Self-report, cross-sectional data were obtained from a sample of 144 junior high and high school students, from 12- to 17-years-old. The study demonstrated that the relationship between crystallized intelligence and alcohol use was mediated by purpose in life. In addition, cognitive abilities were related to less cigarette and illicit drug use. Although there was no direct relationship between coping strategies and polydrug use, cognitive approach skills predicted more polydrug use, suggesting that those adolescents who actively addressed their problems may have been more stimulus seeking than their more avoidant counterparts. The findings reflected a need for additional research in the field of cognitive abilities or intelligence, coping, and meaning in life and their effects on adolescent drug use. Tables and references