If you’ve ever held your breath as your child leapt from the couch, zipped down the tallest slide, or pedaled their bike at lightning speed, you may have wondered: why are kids such daredevils?
According to Dr. Kelsey Brocker, pediatric psychologist at Akron Children’s Hospital, thrill-seeking in children is often a mix of personality, reinforcement and modeling. And while it can feel nerve-wracking for parents, it’s also part of how kids learn and grow.
Born This Way
Some kids are naturally more adventurous than others. Brocker explains that development is shaped by both nature and nurture.
“We are all born with genetic predispositions to certain behaviors and personality styles,” she says. “Some children are simply wired to be more adventurous and thrill-seeking. Their environment — from parenting style to experiences at school — can either encourage or tone down those tendencies.”
The Thrill Is Its Own Reward
Risky behavior also tends to reinforce itself. Kids often enjoy the physical sensations, whether it’s the rush of swinging high or racing down a slide. They may also feel proud after completing something daring, or get attention — even if it’s being told to “stop.”
Brocker notes that any individualized attention, positive or negative, can motivate a child to repeat the behavior.
Learning From Others
Children are natural imitators. They often copy older siblings or peers, and today’s media and social platforms add even more influence.
“If a child sees someone they look up to taking risks, curiosity may drive them to try the same,” Brocker says.
Why Pain Doesn’t Always Stop Them
It might seem logical that once a child is hurt, they’ll avoid repeating the behavior. But pain doesn’t always act as a deterrent.
Brocker explains that if a child tries again and doesn’t get hurt, they may conclude the risk isn’t as dangerous as it seemed. In those moments, the excitement, pride or peer approval can outweigh the possibility of injury.
The Needs Behind Risk-Taking
Thrill-seeking can also meet emotional and developmental needs. Research has linked risk-taking to resilience, creativity and stress relief.
Brocker notes that overcoming uncertainty often gives kids a sense of satisfaction, while creative children may be especially drawn to exploring the unknown. For others, daring behavior may be a way to manage stress and release energy.
Helping Kids Navigate Risks
Parents don’t need to squash every adventurous impulse. Instead, Brocker suggests setting safe limits while allowing children to explore. For younger kids, that might mean giving them the space to discover their own boundaries and then talking afterward about what felt safe or unsafe. For teens, open conversations are key.
“Adolescence is a time of self-discovery and increased independence,” Brocker says. “Helping them understand the consequences of risky choices — from parties to peer pressure — equips them to make informed decisions.”
If a child’s risk-taking begins interfering with school, friendships or safety, Brocker advises seeking support. “Parents know their children best,” she says. “If something feels off, trust your instincts and reach out to your provider.”
So while your little daredevil may give you gray hairs, their thrill-seeking may also be helping them grow braver, more creative and resilient — as long as it’s balanced with safe boundaries.
