During a 3-month period ending in January 1977, questionnaires were given to 889 eighth and twelfth grade students to determine the extent of drinking among rural teenagers in Idaho, and the sociological and psychological factors affecting their drinking habits. At least 16% of 8th graders and 34% of 12th graders drink frequently. A much higher proportion of each age level drink occasionally. Both groups tend to have their first drink at home; home is also the most frequent drinking place for 8th graders, and the car is the most common drinking place for 12th graders. Both groups obtain alcoholic beverages primarily from their friends. Drinking behavior of parents, closeness of relationship with parents, and communication with parents are strongly related to drinking patterns of both groups. An even stronger relationship, particularly for 12th graders, exists between drinking and friendship patterns. Parents are most influential in determining whether drinking occurs for non-drinkers in both grades. Friends are more influential for frequent drinkers in both grades. Problem drinking is more likely to occur among families without close ties and when problem oriented communication between parents and child is minimal. Non-drinkers in both grades feel that parents are the best source of information about alcohol. The same is true for 8th graders who drink. However, the 12th grade drinkers feel the mass media are the most credible. Therefore, any program to discourage alcohol abuse must consider these factors. (NQ)