Psychology

Reckless behavior in adolescence: A developmental perspective

Document Type

Article

Abstract

A developmental theory of reckless behavior among adolescents is presented, in which sensation seeking and adolescent egocentrism are especially prominent factors. Findings from studies of automobile driving, sex without contraception, illegal drug use, and minor criminal activity are presented in evidence of this. The influence of peers is then discussed and reinterpreted in the light of sensation seeking and adolescent egocentrism. Socialization influences are considered in interaction with sensation seeking and adolescent egocentrism, and the terms narrow and broad socialization are introduced. Factors that may be responsible for the decline of reckless behavior with age are discussed. © 1992.

Publication Title

Developmental Review

Publication Date

1992

Volume

12

Issue

4

First Page

339

Last Page

373

ISSN

0273-2297

DOI

10.1016/0273-2297(92)90013-R

Keywords

adolescence

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