Development of a Risk Perception Model for Adolescents Based on Problem-Solving Skills, Irrational Beliefs, and Emotion Regulation: The Mediating Role of Metacognitive Awareness

Roozbahani, Zohre; Dastbaz, Anvar

doi:10.22059/japr.2026.386776.645090

Development of a Risk Perception Model for Adolescents Based on Problem-Solving Skills, Irrational Beliefs, and Emotion Regulation: The Mediating Role of Metacognitive Awareness

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

zohre roozbahani ¹

Anvar Dastbaz ²

¹ MSc. in Psychology, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj Branch, Sanandaj, Iran.

² Assistant Professor, Department of Counseling, Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences, University of Kurdistan, Sanandaj, Iran

10.22059/japr.2026.386776.645090

Abstract

The aim of this study was to evaluate the fit of a conceptual model of risk perception in adolescents based on problem-solving skills, irrational beliefs, and emotion regulation, with the mediating role of metacognitive awareness. This applied research employed a quantitative approach and a descriptive-correlational method, using structural equation modeling (SEM) for data analysis. The statistical population consisted of senior secondary school students in Sanandaj during the 2023–2024 academic year. A total of 341 students (272 girls and 69 boys) were selected using a convenience sampling method. The instruments used in the study included the Risk Perception Inventory (RPI), Metacognitive Awareness Inventory (MAI), Emotion Regulation Questionnaire (EPQ), Irrational Beliefs Questionnaire (IBQ), and the Social Problem-Solving Inventory-Revised (SPSI-R).Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation coefficients, and structural equation modeling via SPSS-24 and AMOS-26 software. The results indicated that the overall model demonstrated a good fit. Accordingly, adaptive problem-solving and emotional reappraisal had a positive effect on metacognitive awareness and risk perception, whereas maladaptive problem-solving and irrational beliefs had negative effects. Metacognitive awareness played a mediating role. Emotional suppression showed no significant effect. Therefore, by strengthening these skills, safer decision-making among adolescents can be improved.

Keywords

risk perception

irrational beliefs

problem-solving

emotion regulation

metacognitive awareness