The Role of Impulsivity, Executive Functions and Dispositional Mindfulness in the Occurrence of Risky-Taking Behaviours of Young People

The aim of this study was to investigate the role of impulsivity, executive functions and dispositional mindfulness in the occurrence of risky-taking behaviours in young people. This study was a descriptive and correlational study. The statistical population of the study included students of Tehran Universities in 2020-2021. By using available sampling method through online calling, 380 students participated in the study. They responeded to the Iranian Adolescents Risk Scale, the Barrat Impulsivity, the Cognitive Ability Questionnaire and the Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire. Data were analyzed using correlation tests and hierarchical multiple regression analysis. The results showed that there was a positive and significant relationship between impulsivity and executive functions (except social cognition) and risky-taking behaviours.there was also a negative and significant relationship between risky-taking behaviours with dispositional mindfulness and factors of describing and action with awareness. Regression results showed that executive functions significantly predicted the tendency to risky-taking behaviours in young people. The obtained results can be used to determine educational and treatment priorities in order to help prevent and control such risky-taking behaviours in young people.