The role of threat sensitivity as a mediator in the relationship between cognitive conflict and risk-taking behavior in young adults.

Abstract

Cognitive conflict and risk-taking behaviors are linked in complex ways. This study examined whether threat sensitivity explains the relationship between conflict monitoring and risk-taking in young adults. A sample of 204 university students (ages 18-25, mean = 20.55, SD = 2.14) completed a computerized Stroop task (cognitive conflict), the RT-18 questionnaire (risk-taking), and the TF-44 Trait Fear Scale (dispositional threat sensitivity). Pearson correlations indicated that greater Stroop interference score (higher conflict) was associated with lower self-reported risk-taking and higher threat sensitivity. In turn, higher threat sensitivity predicted reduced risk-taking. Mediation analysis confirmed that cognitive conflict influenced risk-taking indirectly through threat sensitivity. The direct effect of conflict on risk-taking was non-significant, whereas the indirect path via threat sensitivity was significant, suggesting an indirect-only (complete) mediation. These results suggest that individuals experiencing higher internal conflict become more vigilant toward potential threats, which in turn deters them from risky actions. Understanding this pathway could guide interventions (i.e., cognitive control or anxiety-management training) to reduce maladaptive risk behaviors in young adults.