Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

Which of the following behaviors is considered the most risky for adolescents?

1. Raiding parent's liquor cabinet

2. Smoking marijuana in the backyard with friends

3. Having unprotected sex

4. Texting and driving

The correct answer is: Texting and driving

Texting and driving is considered the most risky behavior for adolescents due to the significant threat it poses not only to the individual but also to others on the road. This behavior combines the dangers of distracted driving with a lack of experience that many adolescents have behind the wheel. The act of texting diverts attention from the primary task of driving, severely impairing reaction time and situational awareness. Statistics consistently show that texting while driving increases the likelihood of accidents dramatically, contributing to serious injuries and fatalities. While raiding a parent's liquor cabinet, smoking marijuana, and having unprotected sex also carry serious risks related to health, legal consequences, and potential life changes, the immediate and potentially life-threatening nature of texting and driving elevates its status as the most dangerous behavior in this context.