Level of Curiosity and Risk-Taking Behavior in Adult Male Smokers

Abstract

Curiosity a fundamental human trait, can influence individuals to try various experiences including engaging in not so healthy behavior like smoking. Whereas risk taking refers to decisions that a person does or make that involves certain level of risk. “Risk taking is any consciously or non-consciously controlled behavior with a perceived uncertainty about its outcome, and/or about its possible benefits or costs for the physical, economic or psycho- social well-being of oneself or others.” The interplay between curiosity and risk-taking tendencies significantly impacts the initiation, continuation and cessation of smoking. This study aims to see the level of curiosity and level of risk-taking behavior among young adult smokers. A sample size comprising of 120 male adults (59 smokers and 61 nonsmokers), within the age range of 18 to 25 years were taken. Curiosity and Exploration Inventory given by Kashdan, Rose and Fincham and Domain Specific Risk Taking given by Bali’s, A.R, Weber, E.U., were administered for data collection. The data was analyzed using independent sample t test and Pearson correlation, i.e., mean and relationship between two variables. The results indicated that there was no significant difference in curiosity of adult male smokers and nonsmokers. It also showed that there was a significant difference in risk taking of adult male smokers and nonsmokers. Results also showed that there is a statistically significant strong positive correlation.