Abstract: Using a sample of 614 youths, this study examined differences and similarities between adolescents at risk (age range 11-20 years), and their integration in school or vocational training. We found that mood states (depression, anxiety), secure self (self-esteem and self-efficacy), relationship with parents, delinquency and substance use (alcohol, tobacco and cannabis) were variables which largely influenced social integration (school, work) for youths with poor sociodemographic backgrounds. An important variable we introduced here was sociodemographic background, which investigated the social situation of a youth. We distinguished two different groups (good vs. poor sociodemographic background). There were important differences between both groups. Youths with a poor sociodemographic background scored higher in suicidality and health complaints. The most striking differences were in substance use and delinquency. The structural equation model showed that poor mood was related to substance use at the start. Important paths were found in mood states over time, as for substance use, but interactions between both variables were small. We ran different models (poor vs. good social background, Swiss vs. migrant youths), and concluded that secure self and good family relations protected against poor mood and substance use and both variables indirectly influenced integration 2-3 years later.