Sixteen-year-old Edward is sexually active, but doesn't practice safe sex. He thinks becoming infected with AIDS is something that would happen to other people, but not to him. Which of the following concepts best explains Edward's belief?
A) hypothetical reasoning
B) the personal fable
C) the imaginary audience
D) the illusion of invulnerability

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The illusion of invulnerability is the belief that negative outcomes, such as contracting an STD, will not happen to oneself. This is a common belief among adolescents who engage in risky behaviors, like unprotected sex. The other answer choices (hypothetical reasoning, personal fable, imaginary audience) do not pertain to this specific belief held by Edward.

Sixteen-Year-Old Edward Is Sexually Active, but Doesn't Practice Safe Sex