Who takes health risks? A probe into eight personality typesWho takes health risks? A probe into eight personality types

Ample research has shown that the basic personality factors of neuroticism, extraversion, and conscientiousness (or psychoticism) are important predictors of risky health behaviours. Yet, the findings are increasingly inconsistent. We propose that configurations of the basic personality factors, as represented by a typology, may yield clearer results. In a sample of 683 university students, smoking, consumption of alcohol and drugs, and risky sexual behaviour were examined among eight types. Findings showed that several types deviated significantly from the average with respect to risky health behaviours. Types with a configuration of low conscientiousness and either high extraversion (Impulsives, Hedonists) or high neuroticism (Insecures) were particularly inclined to engage in multiple, risky health behaviours. Conversely, types combining high conscientiousness with low extraversion (Sceptics, Brooders) abstained from risky behaviours. The findings suggest that the typology represents a useful approach to predicting risky health behaviours.