Health-Risk Behaviors among Romanian Adolescents: A Quantitative Analysis based on Predictive Models [Comportamentele cu risc pentru sanatate in randul adolescentilor romani: o analiza cantitativa bazata pe modele predictive]

Engaging in physical and mental health risk behaviors is a manifestation of deviations from normal adolescent development path. Several dimensions encompassing factors that intervene in the adjustment of adolescents to developmental tasks and challenges have been demarcated. This correlational study aimed to identify protective and risk factors related to adolescents’ engagement in health risk behaviors. The sample included 556 Romanian adolescents (354 girls and 196 boys). Participants completed a standardized protocol based on thirteen questionnaires. Depending on the nature of criteria, hierarchical multiple linear regression analysis (controling for gender) or binomial logistic regression were used to test the predictive models. Results suggest that resilience in the face of adversities, religiosity, positive perception of family climate and the satisfaction with school are protective factors related to adolescents’ engagement in physical and mental health risk behaviors, such as smoking, alcohol use, unprotected sexual contacts or suicide attempts. Family, specialists working in school system and community services must join their efforts and focus interventions to control factors that promote resilience and positive development during adolescence.