Buzz Inside the Minds of Thrill-Seekers

(Barry) #1

  • Review the typical stages that someone might go through
    from curiosity about drugs to addiction to drugs,
    especially for high sensation-seekers.

  • Connect aggression and other disruptive behaviors as
    forms of risky behavior that can be satisfying to the high
    sensation-seeker.


Discussion Questions


  1. Like Icarus, we can all sometimes “fly too high” or “fly too
    low.” How do you know when you are at your extremes in
    a situation, and when you are moderating to appropriate
    levels? What is your comfort zone for risk?

  2. If you don’t value sensation-seeking, what is it in your
    life that you value highly or even the most? What
    kind of risks would you take for those things you
    value highly?

  3. The author lists a host of risky driving behaviors that
    have been associated with high sensation-seekers.
    Should our communities do more to identify high sensa-
    tion-seeking drivers? Should there be additional training
    or information sessions for sensation-seekers who want
    to drive on the roads?

  4. Based on what you’ve reviewed in this book, how would
    you define and recognize healthy versus unhealthy ver-
    sions of sensation-seeking?

  5. Conduct your own version of the marshmallow test with
    a friend. Identify a highly satisfying food or drink that
    you both enjoy and set it between you while you talk.
    How long can you wait before indulging? Is there
    a difference between you in terms of how long you can
    delay gratification? Does the pattern relate to your rela-
    tive propensity for sensation-seeking?


Chapter 8


Learning Objectives


  • Develop an appreciation for the unique combination of
    characteristics, maybe even superpowers, you are likely
    to find in high sensation-seekers.

  • Understand the implication of living without a strong
    sense of fear, with no fear. It allows for quick action


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