Outcome expectancies and risk-taking behavior

Author(s): Katz, E. C., Rivet, K.

Journal/Book: Cognitive Ther Res. 1997; 21: 233 Spring St, New York, NY 10013. Plenum Publ Corp. 421-442.

Abstract: One explanation for risk-taking behavior despite warnings about the dangers is that anticipated positive consequences outweigh possible negative outcomes. In a five-part investigation, a new questionnaire was developed to assess outcome expectancies for the potential consequences of involvement in a variety of risky activities. Conceptual and methodological limitations of previously available questionnaires were addressed and content construct and criterion validity were demonstrated. The new questionnaire measures respondents' beliefs about the consequences of 30 risky activities, as well as their expected and actual involvement in those activities. Consistent with a large body of alcohol expectancy research, beliefs about potential benefits were found to be more reliably associated with risk-taking than were beliefs about potential negative consequences. Implications for cognitive approaches to harm reduction are discussed.

Note: Article Fromme K, Univ Texas, Dept Psychol, 330 Mezes Hall, Austin,TX 78712 USA

Keyword(s): risk taking; outcome expectancies; harm reduction; ALCOHOL; REINFORCEMENT; PERSONALITY; MARIJUANA; PATTERNS; STUDENTS; SEX

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