Activism and radicalism modulate sex differences in interpersonal risks: a dual moderation analysis

Abstract

While engagement in risk-taking is highly prevalent during youth, there are individual differences in its expression. Generally, male youth tend to engage in risk-taking more than female youth. However, sex differences in risk-taking behaviors may be modulated by political mobilization processes. The present study analyzed how intentions toward activism and radicalism moderate the relationship between sex and various risk-taking behaviors, including health risks, interpersonal risks, and deviant non-violent behaviors. A total of 496 individuals participated in the study, of which 222 were females (mean age M = 18.27, SD = 2.22, age range 15–24 years). Results showed an interaction effect between sex and intention toward activism and radicalism for interpersonal risks. Theoretical and practical implications of political mobilization on sex differences in risk-taking are discussed.