Adolescents’ Perceptions of Family Violence Risks

Nearly one-third (28.4 %) of adolescents experience some form of physical assault in the home. A survey of 176 adolescents documents optimistic bias; adolescents believe they are less likely than others to become victims of family violence. Elements of the Health Belief Model, perceived susceptibility and perceived severity, predicted optimistic bias. The study also considers the impact vicarious experience through the media on adolescent risk perception.