Exploring the Relationship between Curiosity, Risk-Taking, and Self-Control: Testing a Psychologically Informed Dual Systems Model

• In Event: Expanding Control Theory: An Exploration of Social Control, Self-Control, and Neutralization Strategies to Explain Crime

Abstract

Steinberg’s (2010) dual systems theory suggests that there are two brain systems: A socioemotional system and a cognitive control system. Arneklev (2024) has argued that the concept of curiosity may be imbedded within the first system of the brain where risk-taking/sensation-seeking processes occur. This side of the model is influenced by the dopaminergic system, that motivates behavior likely to be rewarding, such as risk-taking/sensation-seeking activities. The other system of the brain includes the development of self-control which curbs imprudent inclinations. Like risk-taking, curiosity is a motivational characteristic that encourages investigative, experiential, and potentially deviant activities. Therefore, curiosity appears closely related to risk-taking/sensation-seeking. In this paper, structural equation modeling techniques are used to analyze previously collected data to test whether curiosity is related to the risk-taking/sensation-seeking side of the model and whether it is associated with, but unique from self-control. Implications for the dual systems model and for curiosity as a new concept in criminological theory are discussed.

Authors

• Bruce J. Arneklev, Florida Atlantic University

• Randy R. Gainey, Old Dominion University