How Does Religion Deter Adolescent Risk Behavior?

Abstract

We present a theoretical model that describes four explanations (mechanisms) why religious adolescents display less risk behavior than nonreligious adolescents. Specifically, religions affect the extent to which adolescents (a) have opportunities to engage in risk behavior, (b) find risk behavior appealing, (c) view risk behavior as morally acceptable, and (d) exert self-control over their impulses. These mechanisms are not unique to religions. However, our model identifies three features of religion that can nurture them. First, religions offer a worldview that can affect whether adolescents regard risk behavior as appealing and morally acceptable and can influence self-control. Second, central to most religions is a God that monitors and judges behavior, which can influence self-control and beliefs about what is appealing and morally acceptable. Third, religions provide a community of people who can limit opportunity to engage in risk behavior, influence the appeal and moral acceptability of risk behavior, and can foster self-control by providing support.