The Serial Mediating Effect of Optimistic Bias and Risk-Taking on the Relationship Between the Behavioral Activation System and Fall Risk Awareness in Older Adults

This study examined the relationship between the behavioral activation system (BAS) and fall risk awareness among Korean older adults, focusing on the mediating roles of optimistic bias and risk-taking. Data from 280 participants aged 60-84 were collected via an online survey. Using PROCESS Macro 3.5 Model 6, results showed that BAS positively correlated with optimistic bias, risk-taking, and fall risk awareness. However, optimistic bias and risk-taking were not directly correlated with fall risk awareness. A double mediation effect was observed, where optimistic bias and risk-taking sequentially mediated the BAS-fall risk awareness link. While BAS generally increased fall risk awareness, its influence became negative when mediated through optimistic bias and risk-taking. These findings suggest BAS affects fall risk awareness in complex ways, sometimes leading to lower awareness due to overconfidence and risk-taking behaviors.