Connections between violent television exposure and adolescent risk taking

This study utilized a survey to assess television viewing and risk-taking b ehavior in 717 adolescents (age 11-22). Results indicated that, among adole scents, there is a link between exposure to violent television in the form of violent drama, realistic crime shows and contact sports and participatio n in various forms of risk taking. problem drinking, drinking and driving, delinquency (vandalizing, trespassing, truancy), reckless driving, and drug use. However; the relationship between exposure to various forms of violen t television content and risk-taking behavior varies somewhat. Specifically , exposure to realistic crime shows and exposure to contact sports is posit ively related to risk taking; whereas, exposure to violent drama is negativ ely related to risk-taking behavior: predictions are made and findings disc ussed in terms of problem behavior theory, implications for health messages targeting adolescents are discussed.