Why do some people take more risks?

Close to the edge, risky business...


Asked by: Leslie O’Brien, Hereford

That partly depends on their sex. Research shows that men are more likely to take physical risks to show off strength and daring, especially if they are young and if women are watching. Women have evolved to be more cautious, presumably because of the need to protect their offspring.

But women take more social risks than men. People who love excitement and thrills enjoy risky behaviours, and upbringing and environment play a part too. So does peer pressure. We are all more likely to take risks if others around us are doing so, even if we correctly assess the danger.

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