Risk-Takers by Moira Plant (9780415035385)

Description - Risk-Takers by Moira Plant

Adolescence is a turbulent period, a time when young people are particularly prone to risky behaviours, such as drug use and unprotected sex. Risk Takers provides a comprehensive view of youthful involvement with drinking, smoking, illicit drug use, and sexual activity. In particular, the authors explore the evidence linking alcohol, drug use, 'disinhibition' and risky sex. They discuss these issues in relation to evidence suggesting that some forms of risk-taking are interconnected. Though some young people are especially prone to take risks due to poverty and social advantage, the authors emphasize that risk-taking is commonplace adolescent behaviour, difficult to restrain or curb. They remind us that past attempts to reduce youthful alcohol and drug misuse have produced disappointing results, and they also point out that most young people have not modified their sexual behaviour in the light of the risks of AIDS. Risk-taking is unlikely to be prevented by mass media campaigns or bland slogans such as 'Just Say No'. The authors examine the effectiveness of preventive strategies and public policy and emphasize the importance of 'harm-minimisation' strategies.
This review provides a challenging assessment of health-threatening behaviours among young people.

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