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Subjective invulnerability, optimism bias and adjustment in emerging adulthood
Daniel K Lapsley1, Patrick L Hill
1Department of Psychology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN 46556, USA. danlapsley@nd.edu
Journal of Youth and Adolescence
|July 3, 2010
Summary
Subjective invulnerability, particularly danger and psychological aspects, more strongly predicted risk behaviors than optimism bias in emerging adults. Psychological invulnerability also helped predict fewer adjustment problems.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Developmental Psychology
- Risk Assessment
Background:
- Emerging adulthood is a critical developmental period characterized by increased risk-taking behaviors.
- Understanding the psychological factors influencing risk appraisal and behavior is crucial for intervention and prevention.
- Subjective invulnerability and optimism bias are proposed cognitive mechanisms influencing how individuals perceive and respond to risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the relationship between subjective invulnerability and optimism bias in risk appraisal.
- To compare the predictive validity of these constructs regarding risk activity, substance use, and college adjustment problems.
- To investigate the distinct contributions of different facets of invulnerability to risk and adjustment.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 350 emerging adults (M age = 20.17, 73% female, 93% White/European American) participated.
- Subjective invulnerability was measured using the newly developed Adolescent Invulnerability Scale (AIS).
- Optimism bias was assessed via a standard comparative-conditional risk appraisal task.
Main Results:
- The AIS subscales for danger and psychological invulnerability showed strong internal consistency and predictive validity.
- Subjective invulnerability and optimism bias were empirically distinct constructs.
- Danger and psychological invulnerability were more strongly associated with risk behaviors than optimism bias.
- Psychological invulnerability was inversely related to depression, self-esteem issues, and interpersonal problems.
Conclusions:
- Subjective invulnerability, encompassing both danger and psychological aspects, plays a significant role in predicting risk behaviors among emerging adults.
- Psychological invulnerability demonstrates a protective effect against negative adjustment outcomes, including depression and interpersonal difficulties.
- Findings support the concept of "two faces" of adolescent invulnerability, highlighting its complex influence on risk and adjustment.
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