Abstract
Social capital theory suggests that assets inherent in social relations may be used to enhance outcomes for individuals and that youth with increased access to social capital may be less likely to exhibit social and behavioral difficulties. The purpose of this secondary data analysis was to examine the relationship between social capital and substance use by high school students. Results suggest that social capital is a significant contributor to adolescent substance use where increased social capital is associated with decreased alcohol use. Opportunities for schools and communities to invest in strategies that foster the development of social capital and reduce adolescent substance use are discussed.