Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the factors that influence risk-taking behavior in middle school
students. Methods: The participants in this study were 544 students from 4 middle schools in Seoul or Gyeonggi
Province. From July 16, to September 9, 2008, data were collected using self-report questionnaires. Demographic,
individual, socio-economic characteristics of risk-taking behavior were examined. Descriptive statistics,
t-test, ANOVA, Pearson correlation coefficients, zero-inflated negative binomial regression as count model using
SAS 9.1 and Stata 10.0 program were used for the analysis. Results: The score for risk-taking behavior of the
middle school students tended to be low with thrill-seeking behavior being the highest. Risk-taking behavior was
higher for boys and for students not living with parents. Stress coping ability, family risk factors, family functioning,
peer's risk-taking behavior, and harmful environment were correlated with risk-taking behavior. On zero-inflated
negative binomial regression analysis, the factor significantly influencing risk-taking behavior were self-esteem
and for increased risk-taking behavior, family functioning, and peer's risk-taking behavior. Conclusion: A
risk-taking behavior approach that considers developmental needs is useful in understanding the behavior of early
adolescents. Development of effective guidance and interventions considering factors influencing risk-taking
behavior as identified in this study is recommended.