Which of the following is NOT a protective factor against risky behavior?

• A. Strong future orientation
• B. Spending more time with peers who model healthy behaviors
• C. Clear personal goals
• D. High impulsivity

Answer: (D)

Protective factors reduce the likelihood of risky behavior by boosting self-control, planning, and positive social influences. Strong future orientation helps someone consider long-term consequences before acting, which lowers impulsive or reckless choices. Clear personal goals provide motivation and a sense of direction that supports making safer, more deliberate decisions. Spending time with peers who model healthy behaviors creates supportive norms and alternative, constructive activities. High impulsivity, by contrast, leads to quick, spontaneous actions without weighing consequences, making it not a protective factor.