Advancing a participatory approach for youth risk behavior: Foundations, distinctions, and research directions

Researchers of youth risk behavior frequently assume that behavior is volitional; the choice is to either engage in a risky behavior or a safe alternative. Yet, many factors may constrain life choices, not the least of which is how individuals view risk. The study here examines youth risk research to identify general knowledge gaps and shortcomings that may be limiting the positive impact of research-based efforts to promote youth well-being. The study proposes alternative approaches that address these gaps and shortcomings in particular with recognition of the social contexts of both risks and the programs designed to address those risks. A distinctive foundation for a participatory approach to understanding youth risk behavior is then developed.

Keywords:

participatory action research  problem behavior  psychological well-being  recognition (psychology)  risk-taking behavior  risky behavior  social choice  social context  social impact  social services  substance use  teen pregnancy  teen smoking  youth 

Citation:

Marlys J. Mason, John F. Tanner, Maria Piacentini, Dan Freeman, Trena Anastasia, Wided Batat, Wendy Boland, Murad Canbulut, Jenna Drenten, Anne Hamby, Priyam Rangan, and Zhiyong Yang (2013). Advancing a participatory approach for youth risk behavior: Foundations, distinctions, and research directions. Journal of Business Research, 66(8), Pages 1235-1241. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbusres.2012.08.017