A personal construct model of adolescent risk-taking

This report describes the development of a personal construct model of adolescent risk-taking using two studies. Study 1 explored three broad research questions regarding the process, structure and content of construing by adolescents of risk-taking.To refine the model. Study 2 included 124 participants (68 males and 56 females) aged from 14 to 20 years also from school, university and juvenile correction settings. Similar methodologies to Study 1 were used. A final personal construct model of adolescent risk-taking was presented in the form of three propositions and six assumptions. The sampling, design and measurement of the two studies were evaluated. Suggestions for future research are provided and the clinical implications of the personal construct model of adolescent risk-taking are then discussed.