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Published on: September 19, 2012
Sex differences in self-reported risk-taking propensity on the Evaluation of Risks scale
William D S Killgore1, Nancy L Grugle, Desiree B Killgore
1Walter Reed Army Institute of Research, USA. killgore@mclean.harvard.edu
Psychological Reports
|August 18, 2010
Summary
This study validated the Evaluation of Risks scale, finding men scored higher in risk-taking propensity than women. Further research with diverse samples is recommended for this risk assessment tool.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The Evaluation of Risks scale is a new self-report measure for risk-taking propensity.
- Previous studies predominantly featured male subjects, necessitating further validation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate the Evaluation of Risks scale by examining sex differences in risk-taking propensity.
- To assess the scale's construct validity through sex comparisons.
Main Methods:
- 29 men and 25 women (ages 18-36) completed the Evaluation of Risks scale.
- Internal consistency and sex differences on scale indices were analyzed.
- Correlations with sensation seeking measures were examined.
Main Results:
- Internal consistency was modest, especially for women.
- Men scored significantly higher than women on Danger Seeking, Energy, Invincibility, and Total Risk-Propensity.
- Thrill seeking and danger seeking positively correlated with sensation seeking.
Conclusions:
- The scale demonstrated some construct validity through observed sex differences in risk-taking.
- Findings align with prior research indicating higher male risk-taking propensity.
- Further validation with larger, more diverse samples, particularly including women, is warranted.
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