Risk taking in adolescence: A decision-making perspective

Abstract

A decision-making perspective is used to review and analyze the literature on risk taking in adolescence. The advantages of such an approach are demonstrated, and then it is applied to some widely held beliefs regarding adolescents' risky behaviors. The implications of this perspective for education are briefly discussed, along with the need for a developmental theory of decision making. A large number of studies related to adolescent risk taking are reviewed, showing whether and how each addresses issues defined by a decision-making perspective. Alternative views of risk taking are also examined. In conclusion, we discuss the possible validity of the claim that adolescents are undue risk takers. © 1992.