Teens value adventure for many reasons. They want to build a sense of mastery over their world. They want the confidence, self-esteem and skills that come from succeeding at whatever venture they try. Academic, social, athletic opportunities appear, and young people seek to understand and conquer them. Many teens cannot gain the rewards offered for successful achievement in these tasks. So, they save face by using strategies that help them avoid the experience of failure.

Adventure represents an alternative to acceptable achievement paths. Teens who believe they are not able to succeed in school work, athletics, or popularity often look elsewhere for chances to come out on top. Often these teens will turn to peer groups that explore the adventures of drugs, crime and dangerous activities.

  

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