The relationship between self-esteem and risky behaviors: A cross-sectional study of residents in Lublin Province, Poland

Abstract

Risky behaviors are influenced by a variety of internal and external factors, including self-esteem, which reflects an individual's global evaluation of their worth. This study aimed to assess the relationship between self-esteem and risky behaviors among adults in Poland, examining how sociodemographic factors, including occupation and family background, contribute to these behaviors. This cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2023, involving 320 residents of Poland aged 16 to 68 years. Participants were selected through convenience sampling in public locations and surveyed using Rosenberg self-esteem scale and Zuckerman sensation seeking scale. Statistical analyses included the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Pearson correlation, and logistic regression to explore the relationships between self-esteem, risky behaviors, and sociodemographic variables, including interaction effects. Most participants demonstrated average self-esteem (41.56%) and low levels of risky behavior (55.94%). A weak positive correlation was observed between age and self-esteem (R = 0.162, P = .004), while risky behavior showed a negative correlation with age (r = -0.279, P < .001). Participants in nonmedical professions exhibited significantly higher risky behavior scores compared to those in medical professions (P = .013). Family history of alcohol addiction was associated with lower self-esteem (P = .044). Logistic regression analysis confirmed that higher self-esteem significantly reduced the likelihood of risky behaviors (odds ratio [OR] = 0.75, P = .012), while older age (OR = 0.92, P < .001) and working in a medical profession served as additional protective factors. In contrast, respondents in nonmedical professions showed a significantly higher tendency toward risk engagement (OR = 1.45, P = .009). A significant borderline interaction was observed between self-esteem and gender (P = .061). Higher self-esteem was associated with a reduced likelihood of engaging in risky behaviors, with age, occupation, and family history also influencing outcomes. These findings highlight the importance of promoting self-esteem, particularly among younger adults and those in high-risk occupations, as part of public health strategies. Future research should include mental health variables and explore targeted interventions to address both psychological and occupational contributors to risky behaviors.