Predicting high-risk behaviors based on associating with delinquent peers, depression, and problem solving

The purpose of this study was to predict the occurrence of high risk behaviors based on associating with delinquent peers, depression and problem solving.

The research method was descriptive correlational. The sample consisted of 130 (male) students who were studying in the 2016-2017 academic year in Borujen selected via a multi-stage random sample method. The revised questionnaires of high-risk behaviors, association with delinquent peers, and the problem solving of Hepner's Questionnaire were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS and Amos software and structural equation analysis method.

Findings indicated that the component of association with peers has a direct effect on tendency to smoking, Hookah and psychedelics; also trust in Problem-Solving has a direct impact on suicide; the tendency-avoidance component of problem solving on using psychedelics, the personal control component of problem solving on conflict, suicide and tendency to use psychedelics and finally depression had a direct effect on suicide, tendency to use cigar, hookah and psychedelics.

Overall, the findings of the present study support the role of association with delinquent peers, depression and problem solving in predicting high risk behaviors.