Study of High-Risk Behaviors of Students and Their Related Factors (Case Study: Tabriz University of Medical Sciences)

Background and Objectives: The awareness of status of high risk behaviors among students and the identification of their associated factors are of paramount importance. They can help university authorities and planners to perform effective interventions in order to prevent these behaviors. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the quality of life, psychological well-being, adherence to religious, and the use of modern media and high risk behaviors among students of the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences. Methods: This correlational study was conducted among 300 students, 150 of whom were female, in Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran. The subjects were selected through convenience sampling method. Data were collected using Risk-Taking Scale, Quality of Life Scale, the short form of Ryff's Scales of Psychological Well-being (18 items), and the adherence to religious values scale. Data analysis was performed using Pearson correlation coefficient, independent samples t-test, and multiple regression analysis. Results: Regarding the results, there was a significant correlation between gender, marital status, and place of residence of students with their high risk behaviors. Additionally, there was a significant indirect relationship between adherence to religious values, quality of life, and psychological well-being with these behaviors. However, no significant correlation was found between the use of modern media and high risk behaviors. The variables of quality of life, psychological well-being, and adherence to religious values explained 33% of the variations in high-risk behaviors. Conclusion: The improvement of adherence to religious values, psychological well-being, and quality of life led to reduced rate of high risk behaviors.