Consequences of risk-taking behaviour

What is risk taking behaviour?

Risk-taking behaviour usually refers to behaviour that may not necessarily have a positive outcome. Deciding to take part in risk-taking behaviour may have long term consequences for the person involved and may even put others lives in danger. Examples of the most common risk-taking behaviours include:

• dangerous driving - joyriding/drink/drug driving

• anti-social behaviour

• deliberate self-harm

• severe dieting

• unprotected sex

• overeating

What are the consequences of risk taking behaviour?

There are many consequences when young people decide to get involved with risk taking behaviour. These consequences may include:

• criminal conviction - if the young person is involved in anti-social behaviour or dangerous driving.

• injury to others such as friends - if the young person is involved in anti-social behaviour or dangerous driving.

• injury to self - if the young person is involved deliberate self-harm. This may also lead to social isolation of the young person.

• relationship difficulties with peers - if the young person is involved with risk taking behaviour regularly and other friends feel uncomfortable with this.

• problems with parents - if the young person is staying out late, coming home drunk, this may cause arguments with their parents.

• feelings of shame/regret/fear - if the young person reflects on their poor choices they may experience these feelings that could lead to mental health problems if they are not managed/dealt with.

• Pregnancy - if the young person participates in unprotected sex.

• Low self-esteem - if the young person is not happy with their appearance and is involved in overeating and/or severe dieting.

QUESTIONS YOU COULD BE ASKED ON THIS

Name one consequence of risk-taking behaviour. (1mark)

Injury to self

Explain one consequence of a young person taking part in risk-taking behaviour. (2marks)

One consequence of a young person taking part in risk-taking behaviour is that they could be seriously injured and may need hospital treatment. In extreme cases, this could even lead to death.

Describe one effect of young people having unprotected sex. (2marks)

One effect of young people having unprotected sex is an increased risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs). These infections can lead to serious health problems if left untreated.

You should also read:

What is risk taking behaviour?

Risk taking behaviour: The Causes

Influence of peer pressure on risk taking behaviour

Ways to avoid risk taking behaviour