Personality Factors, Autonomy, Religion and Risk Behaviours of First Year Slovak University Students.

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the associations between personality factors, autonomy, religion and risk behaviours (RBs) among students. Methods: Six separate binary logistic regression models were built to explore associations of problematic internet use (PIU), binge drinking and smoking for boys and girls (807 students, 75% females, 19.6 mean age) with personality variables (Plasticity, Stability), autonomy (awareness of self), religion (importance & attendance). Findings: The individual models revealed that PIU was associated with Plasticity and autonomy for both genders and with Stability for boys. Binge drinking was associated with Plasticity for both genders, with importance of religion for boys and attendance for girls. Smoking was associated with Plasticity for both genders, with autonomy for boys and Stability and religious attendance for girls. Discussion: A higher level of Plasticity seems to be generally associated with RBs while Stability, autonomy and religion, although differently for each gender, is protective. This distinction may be an important aspect of prevention programs.