RISK TAKING BEHAVIOR OF ADOLESCENTS: THE PREDICTING ROLE OF PEER PRESSURE AND SELF-CONTROL

Abstract

The present study examined the relationships among peer pressure, self-control, and risk-taking behavior among adolescents, as well as the predictive role of peer pressure and self-control on risk-taking behavior. The sample consisted of 269 adolescents aged 13–19 years, recruited from public and private schools and colleges in the Faisalabad district. Data were collected using the Adolescent Risk-Taking Questionnaire (ARQ), the Peer Pressure Scale (PPS), and the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS). Results indicated a significant positive relationship between peer pressure and risk-taking behavior and a significant negative relationship between self-control and risk-taking behavior. Additionally, peer pressure was negatively correlated with self-control. Multiple regression analysis revealed that both peer pressure and risk-taking behavior were significant negative predictors of self-control. These findings highlight the critical role of social and personal factors in shaping adolescent risk-taking behaviors and suggest the importance of interventions aimed at enhancing self-control and managing peer influence.