We hear a lot about teens at risk. We know their brains are not fully developed, making them more susceptible to impulsive and risky behavior. But there are ways to decrease risky behavior. One of those happens to be religion. So let’s take a look at 4 conditions that researchers have identified to reduce risky behavior in teens and discuss how faith plays a role as a prevention factor.

1. When risky behavior is not appealing, it is not engaged in as often. Due to the values of right and wrong, engaging in questionable behavior is less appealing because it bothers your conscience. Christians hold a world view that guides overall behavior. That world view, based on the Bible and the power of the Holy Spirit in us, finds certain things unappealing and uncomfortable. When you don’t have a moral code, everything is up for grabs and worth a try. But being centered in your faith brings a different perspective. There are right and wrong ways to behave.
2. The Christian life encourages self-examination. As a Christian, we examine our life according to Scripture. Faith acts as a safeguard. When Christian teens are tempted to engage in risky behaviors, their faith provides guardrails around their behavior. Consequences have been discussed. Every day we are to renew our mind with the mind of Christ and act in ways according to what we believe.
3.  Risky behavior is not morally acceptable.  The need to escape or distract through unhealthy behavior is not as strong for the Christian as Christ gives meaning and purpose to life. We are to treat our body as a temple of the Holy Spirit. When you aimlessly drift and have no compass, it is easy to just do what feels right in the moment. But self-control is a fruit of the Spirit and a mark of a Christ follower. So, while temptation exists, the Holy Spirit brings self-control. In other words, you have extra power to resist that which you know is not morally acceptable.
4. Low opportunity for risky behavior.  Christian teens in community find belonging. Church groups and activities provide support and encouragement to do life together based on shared moral values. Basically, Christian community is protective against risk behavior by taming impulsive behavior and influencing right behavior. More voices to do the right thing are present. The power of a healthy peer group is significant. And you are less apt to be around people on a regular basis who engage in risky behavior.

So why do we see so much resistance against Christianity in schools when we know it is a positive factor to deter teen risk behavior? Faith practices lead to better outcomes in teen health and promote positive behavior.