There are a variety of social and environmental risk factors that can contribute to a youth's propensity for risk taking behaviors. Some of these factors include: -Having parents who are overly protective or dismissive of risks -Having little or no access to positive adult role models -Living in neighborhoods with high levels of crime and violence -Suffering from poverty or socioeconomic disadvantage -Engaging in risky behaviors at an early age (e.g., starting drinking/smoking/drug use early)