Risk perception and impulsivity: Association with risky behaviors and substance abuse disorders

• Published in: Accident analysis and prevention Vol. 38; no. 3; pp. 567 - 573
• Main Authors: Ryb, Gabriel E., Dischinger, Patricia C., Kufera, Joseph A., Read, Kathy M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England Elsevier Ltd 01.05.2006
• Subjects: Accidents, Traffic - statistics & numerical data; Adult; Alcohol; Automobile Driving - psychology; Data Collection; Female; Humans; Impulsive Behavior; Impulsivity; Male; Risk Assessment; Risk perception; Risk-Taking; Risky behaviors; Social Perception; Substance-Related Disorders - psychology; Surveys and Questionnaires; Traumatic injury; Wounds, Nonpenetrating - epidemiology; Alcohol; Impulsivity; Risky behaviors; Risk perception; Traumatic injury
• ISSN: 0001-4575; 1879-2057
• DOI: 10.1016/j.aap.2005.12.001

Low risk perception and high impulsivity, in conjunction with substance abuse disorders, are associated with the occurrence of injury in the general population. The study described in this article investigated the association of risk perception and impulsivity with risky behaviors (infrequent seat belt use, drinking and driving, riding with a drunk driver, binge drinking, and speeding for the thrill) among adults with unintentional blunt trauma. Patients ( N = 756) were assessed for substance abuse disorders and participation in risky behaviors. Risk perception and impulsivity were measured by questionnaire. Pearson's chi-square statistic was used to investigate risk perception, impulsivity, substance abuse, and possible confounders relative to risky behaviors. Odds ratios were calculated using logistic regression methodology. Univariate results indicated that low risk perception and high impulsivity were significant risk factors for risky behaviors. After adjustment for confounding factors, low risk perception and high impulsivity remained significantly associated with risky behaviors in the trauma patient population.