Perhaps without realizing what choices mean, these youth are losing control of future choices. While most of the risky behaviors above are in the minority, they should cause concern because all kids deserve positive futures. It is dangerous to ignore or give special attention to a child only because they appear gifted or slow. All children deserve and need attention. Actions follow thoughts, and if not corrected can form habits.
Habits are very difficult to correct.
One of the greatest gifts to give a child is attention. The more serious a problem a child has, the more overwhelmed a parent or mentor will feel. There are many resources available to offer new insight. Use published assessment tasks. Just because an assessment strategy is published, does not make it reliable.