Introduction: This qualitative-descriptive study has the objective to analyze the risk and protective factors of drug consumption referred by families. Method: 22 family mothers of a community in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil took part of the study and were interviewed in the year 2006. Results: These mothers conceived media, the influence of parents and the use of drugs within the family as risk factors. On the other hand, dialogue, structured family environment, and social and educational activities were conceived as protective factors. Conclusion: Both risk and protective factors must be taken into account for the development of prevention programs addressed to low-income families.