Introduction:
Engaging in risky behaviour finds its consequences in the area of physical health, mental health, social relationships, and the psychological sphere.

Objectives:
The aim of the work was to analyze the literature of the subject in the area of selected aspects of risky behaviour. The study was prepared on the basis of national and international positions.

Brief description of the state of knowledge:
The term "risky behaviour" is interdisciplinary and refers to different behaviours showing potentially harmful effects on health. All existing definitions combine one common denominator: the possibility of negative consequences. In the context of risky behaviour, risking may involve taking actions that will be burdened with some kind of threat in advance, such as in the case of alcohol consumption, use of psychoactive substances, or engaging in premature and contingent sexual activity.

Recapitulation:
The period of increased risk-taking behaviour is the time of maturation. Most of these behaviours are associated with the assessment of one's own image against the background of a peer group. The challenges and opportunities currently faced by young people can cause confusion and difficulties in correctly assessing risk and making the right decisions. Prophylaxis and prevention can help to build or reorganize an already existing system of values, which in turn may reduce the occurrence of negative health consequences of taking risk behaviours.