Young people who take risks don’t do so just out of recklessness. They are also willing to take risks to help others, according to psychologist Rebecca van Rijn. She demonstrates that risky behavior among young people is not just a problem, but also a strength.
The teenage years are a time of major changes. Young people develop physically, emotionally, and socially, while the influence of their peers grows increasingly strong. Research by developmental psychologist Rebecca van Rijn shows that this phase brings both risks and opportunities: young people who differ from their peers appear to be more vulnerable to mental health issues, but at the same time, they are often willing to take personal risks to help others.
The research shows that young people who develop differently from their peers - for example, because they enter puberty earlier - are more likely to experience anxiety and depressive symptoms. Girls, in particular, appear to be susceptible to this. Deviating from the group can make young people vulnerable to negative social experiences and feelings of rejection.
Prosocial risk-taking behavior
At the same time, the research sheds new light on risk-taking behavior among young people. Whereas risk-taking behavior is traditionally viewed primarily as something negative, Van Rijn focused on so-called prosocial risk-taking behavior: situations in which young people take risks to help others. Consider, for example, standing up for a classmate who is being bullied, even if that might jeopardize their own standing within the group.
A key finding is that empathy plays a crucial role in this. Young people who are good at empathizing with others appear to be more willing to take such prosocial risks. In addition, the research shows that different forms of risk-taking behavior are interconnected. Young people who are inclined to take risks do so not only in negative situations but also use that trait to support others.
“This calls for a broader view of young people and their behavior. My results show that young people are not only vulnerable or prone to making impulsive choices, but also possess significant social potential. This insight is relevant for parents, teachers, and policymakers, who often focus on limiting problematic behavior,” says Van Rijn.
Actively encourage positive behavior
The societal impact of the findings lies primarily in the opportunities to actively encourage positive behavior. Schools can play an important role in this by creating a safe environment where standing up for others is encouraged. Classroom discussions about bullying, practicing social skills through role-playing, and valuing engaged behavior can help young people speak up when necessary.
The results also align with broader societal trends, in which young people are increasingly visible in discussions about social and societal issues. Van Rijn’s research offers new insights into what motivates young people to stand up for others, even when personal risks are involved. In doing so, it contributes to a better understanding of how young people balance social vulnerability with opportunities to make a positive contribution to their environment.