Which term describes the notion that adolescents believe they are unique and cannot be harmed by actions that typically carry risks?

The concept of the personal fable refers to a part of adolescent egocentrism, where young individuals perceive themselves as unique, special, and different from others. This belief can lead them to think that they are invulnerable to risks or negative consequences that often affect their peers. Adolescents may engage in risky behaviors, such as reckless driving or experimenting with drugs, under the impression that these actions won't harm them, as they feel a sense of invincibility. The personal fable essentially contributes to the notion that their experiences and feelings are unprecedented and not relatable to anyone else, reinforcing their belief in their exceptionalism.

In contrast, the idea of an imaginary audience pertains to adolescents' heightened self-consciousness and belief that they are constantly being observed and judged by others, which can influence their behavior but does not encapsulate the concept of feeling invulnerable to risk. Deductive reasoning refers to a logical process of deriving specifics from general principles, and intuitive thought involves a more instinctive, quicker way of thinking that may not always rely on reflective analysis. Neither of these two concepts addresses the unique perception of risk that characterizes the personal fable.