Understanding risky behaviours
The teenage years area time of significant physical, emotional, social, and cognitive changes.
The brain doesn't fully mature until the mid-20s, which explains why teenagers often make impulsive decisions and underestimate the consequences of their actions.
During this time, peer influence becomes even more significant. Teenagers start relying less on parents and carers for guidance and instead seek approval, inclusion, and support from their friends and social circles.
These changes play a key role in driving risk-taking behaviours, which often stem from a combination of factors, including:
- seeking new experiences
- curiosity
- gaining independence
- developing their own identity
- wanting to belong and find a community
- new friendships and social circles.
When risk taking peaks
Risk-taking behaviours tend to peak during the mid-teen years and usually start to decline as teenagers approach adulthood. However, this is different for every teenager.
Common risky behaviours during adolescence include:
- alcohol misuse: binge drinking or developing alcohol poisoning
- drug use: illegal substances that can cause a range of physical, psychological, or behavioural effects
- vaping and smoking: use or abuse of nicotine products like cigarettes and e-cigarettes
- dangerous driving: driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, or driving while tired
- risky sexual behaviour: unprotected sex, multiple sexual partners, or unplanned pregnancy
- violence: physical, verbal, or sexual assault.
Research shows that young males are more likely to engage in risky behaviours, which can sometimes be seen as a demonstration of masculinity within peer groups.