The thrill of danger: a developmental reassessment of risk and reward perception in adolescent risk-taking across behavioral domains

Risk-taking is defined as behaviors with uncertain outcomes that are likely to result in both losses and potential rewards. Current models agree on the positive influence of reward perception on risk-taking behavior. However, it remains unclear how the combined perception of risks and rewards influences engagement in various types of risk-taking, particularly when considering the moderating effects of age and gender. It is still uncertain whether the perception of risk itself can be aversive or attractive for engaging in risk-taking behavior. The sample consisted of 478 participants, aged 10 to 25 years (N = 478, M = 15.48, SD = 3.06, 53.76% female). Participants completed a questionnaire assessing their engagement in risk-taking and their perception of the associated risks and rewards (AYARTI). The results challenge existing risk-taking models by highlighting key findings: (1) transgressive-social behaviors are driven by the simultaneous perception of high risks and high rewards. As individuals age, the interaction between these two factors strengthens, whereas gender differences remain limited. (2) Self-surpassing behaviors are primarily influenced by reward perception, regardless of perceived risk. However, the effect of reward perception declines with age, and women appear to be more sensitive to the combined influence of risks and rewards. Given that the perception of reward alone does not lead to risk-taking, and that risk itself can be attractive, prevention campaigns need to be reconsidered. Traditional approaches focused on deterring risk may prove insufficient, and new strategies should be tailored to the profiles of individuals and the behavior targeted.