Concept Analysis of Risk Behavior in the Context of Adolescent Development

Abstract

The term risk behavior is a concept that has been used in the literature for many years, particularly as it relates to adolescent developmental issues and adolescent health behaviors. Currently the literature specific to the conceptual analysis of risk behavior is limited and relates in general to adults, rather than youths. The purpose of this investigation was to analyze not only the concept of risk behavior, but also its specific relationship to adolescents. Previous conceptual analyses have not considered how those concepts may be affected by the psychosocial development of adolescents. Therefore the specific aim of this analysis is to clarify the concept of risk behavior as it relates to youths. Following the process outlined by Walker and Avant (1995) the critical attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents for the concept of risk behavior are presented in this article.