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Adolescents' risky behavior and mass media use
J D Klein1, J D Brown, K W Childers
1Department of Pediatrics, University of Rochester School of Medicine, NY.
Pediatrics
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Adolescents engaging in more risky behaviors consume more mass media, including music videos and sports magazines. Targeted health promotion can reach these teens by focusing on their media habits.
Area of Science:
- Adolescent Health
- Media Studies
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Adolescent risky behaviors pose significant public health challenges.
- Understanding media consumption patterns is crucial for effective health interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between mass media use and risky behaviors in adolescents.
- To identify specific media preferences among adolescents engaged in multiple risk-taking activities.
Main Methods:
- Secondary data analysis of a 1987 survey of 2760 adolescents (14-16 years old).
- Assessed participation in eight risky behaviors and various mass media usage.
- Examined correlations across race, gender, and parental education.
Main Results:
- Higher engagement in risky behaviors correlated with increased radio listening and television viewing (music videos, movies).
- White male adolescents with five or more risky behaviors favored heavy metal music.
- Sports and music magazine readership was higher among adolescents with multiple risky behaviors.
Conclusions:
- Mass media consumption patterns differ based on the extent of adolescent risk-taking.
- Health promotion initiatives can be more effective by targeting adolescents with multiple risky behaviors through tailored media strategies.