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