This journal article describes a study that examined the relationship between the level of self-reported executive function (EF) and engagement in risk-taking behaviors among a sample of shelter-living urban homeless youth. The researcher predicted that homeless youth who have lower levels of self-reported EF would more readily engage in risky behaviors that could lead to negative outcomes. The study recruited 149 youth between 18 and 22 years of age from homeless agencies in Chicago. Of this study sample, 53 percent were female and 76 percent were African American. As part of a broader neuropsychological assessment, all participants completed the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Functioning-Adult Version (BRIEF-A), the National Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS), and the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). The researchers assigned participants to the high self-reported EF group or the low self-reported EF group. The results showed a relationship between the level of self-reported EF and risk-taking behaviors among the participants. Those with lower self-reported executive functioning had higher rates of engagement in multiple substance-related risk-taking behaviors. By identifying factors like low self-reported EF, potential interventions could provide focused support to youth who are at higher risk for engaging in problematic behaviors. (author abstract modified)