Theories of Adolescent Risk-Taking Behavior

Does country context matter? Investigating the predictors of teen sexting across Europe

“…Although individual factors are important in explaining behavior, there is evidence that also broader contextual variables may influence adolescents' online behavior. In many theories of adolescent development, the social and cultural context in which children grow up has been considered an important determinant of their behavior (Bronfenbrenner, 1979;Igra & Irwin, 1996). However, empirical studies taking the broader context into consideration are largely missing (Kotchick, Shaffer, & Forehand, 2001).…”

Prevalence and Social Correlates of Injury Among In-School Adolescents in Botswana

“…A number of theories offer different explanations for the relationship between development and risk-taking among adolescent. For example, biologically-based theories attribute risk-taking behaviour to genetic predispositions and hormonal changes mediated through pubertal timing (Igra & Irwin, 1996). Psychological theories suggest that sensation-seeking, reflecting a need for varied, novel and complex experiences, encourages a willingness to take physical and social risks (Zuckerman, 1979).…”

Covariation of Cigarette Smoking and Other Health-risk Behaviors among Japanese High School Students: a Preliminary Study.

“…"6) Therefore, adolescent smoking may serve as a warning signal of the presence of other drugs' use. On the other hand, adolescent health-risk behaviors that are also problem behaviors, such as drug use, alcohol abuse, delinquency, and sexual precocity, are likely to cluster or accumulate 7,8). Many studies on adolescent smoking have also indicated a high covariation with these problem behaviors.…”