Problem Behavior Theory--2
Abstract
In this study we explored the relationship between risk-taking behavior, including
disordered eating, and the meanings that individuals assign to those behaviors in a sample
of incoming college freshmen. The overall goal of this research is to extend research in
problem behavior theory by not only looking at the co-occurrence of problem behaviors,
but to determine whether common symbolic meanings are associated across those
correlations. Overall, there were two distinct factors of risk taking. The first included
smoking, alcohol use, marijuana use, drinking and driving, and risky sex. The second
included use of diet pills, amphetamines and other drugs, and dieting to lose weight. We
also examined the meanings that individuals associate with risk taking as it related to
their own risk taking. Overall, two roots emerged: pleasers and independents. The former
included more risk taking, such as smoking, drinking, binge drinking, marijuana use, sex
without condoms, restricting food, purging (via vomiting or laxatives) and taking diet
pills. In addition to these risks, these individuals believed that those who fasted are
independent, those who engaged in the risky weight loss behaviors are relaxed, care what
others think and get credit for their actions. This pattern suggests people who believe in
the social benefits of risk taking. The latter root includes nonsmokers who drink, but do
not binge drink. They are nondieters who believe that high risk dieters are independent.
This pattern suggests individuals who admire independent behavior.
Page 1 of 31 
Convention