Adolescents, at Risk

Understanding at-Risk Behaviors

There are many different models and theories used to predict and understand behaviors, but relatively little consensus as to how to synthesize the research findings. Dodge and Petit (2003) presented a biopsychosocial approach to the understanding of the issues and problems faced by adolescents with conduct problems and stressed the importance of distinct models for individual problems. In this model, no single variable can be used without fail to predict the behavior of an adolescent. Instead, these researchers stated that predictions are best made by looking at a nonlinear interaction between factors related to biological, psychological, and social variables. While the merits of this theory are subject to debate, one thing that seems clear is that previously identified risk factors do not accurately predict outcome for everyone. For example, Gleason and Dynarksi (2002) found that many traditionally used risk factors, such as demographic variables and past school performance, were ineffective in predicting future school dropouts.

Problem behavior theory (Jessor & Jessor, 1977) is another model that has frequently been used to explain at-risk adolescent behavior. Problem behavior theory attempts to predict the likelihood of an adolescent engaging in a particular behavior through the analysis of the relationships of a host of social and psychological variables. Problem behavior theory focuses on the interaction of at-risk behaviors and how one behavior can be related to, or even used to predict, other risky behaviors.

Developmental factors can be used to understand the factors related to the decision to engage in unsafe behaviors. Different periods of childhood and adolescence present different goals and values. For example, establishing independence and individual identity separate from parental figures is likely more important in later adolescence than it is in early childhood. Early childhood interactions likely influence mechanisms of self-representation, such as self-esteem. Early experiences of acceptance, both in school and at home, may serve as important protective factors against risky behaviors.

Factors Related to at-Risk Behaviors

Risk factors for future negative outcomes for adolescents can be highly intertwined and difficult to disentangle. For example, early alcohol and drug use has been related to a host of outcomes, such as future delinquent behavior and illicit drug use. Therefore, alcohol use at a young age becomes an early warning sign. However, what are the early warning signs for alcohol use at a young age? The task then becomes to look for the warning signs of warning signs, often creating more confusion than clarity. Even the search for the earliest warning signs can be difficult, as unhealthy behaviors can result from any number of factors or their interactions.

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