Problem Behavior Theory and Adolescent Health

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This second volume of Richard Jessor’s influential works applies his groundbreaking theory to the psychosocial determinants of adolescent health. It examines various health-compromising and health-enhancing behaviors, such as problem drinking, marijuana use, risky driving, and early sexual experiences, alongside regular exercise and healthy diets. The writings enhance understanding of health behavior's role in adolescence and development. Chapters demonstrate the theory's relevance and its interdisciplinary approach for researching behavioral health in youth and designing prevention/intervention programs for healthy development. Comparative studies of U.S. and Chinese youth illustrate the theory's applicability across different societal contexts. Key topics include alcohol use and problem drinking, psychosocial research on marijuana, early sexual initiation, smoking behaviors, risky driving changes, and the importance of healthy eating and exercise. This volume is an essential resource for researchers, professors, clinicians, and graduate students in developmental and health psychology, sociology, criminology, criminal justice, public health, and related fields.