The foundation of the CHARM is guided by the Perceived Risk Hierarchy Theory (PRHT).TM The (PRHT) emerged from a longitudinal study among emerging adults regarding alcohol and substance use, sexual behaviors, Hepatitis – C, mental health and decision-making. Developed by public health practitioners in an attempt to explain the lack of regard for preventive health care screenings for early detection of communicable diseases among youth and emerging adults. However, the data collected and analyzed revealed a much larger concern among this population which led to the development of the PRHT.TM The PRHT posits that youth and emerging adults’ perception of health risk and/or severity is attenuated by what they perceive as more imminent and immediate risks.
The PRHT was tested by the Center for Predictive Analytics (CPA) at Morgan State University employing psychodynamics. The theory’s validity and reliability were confirmed. Of note, Universities.com has ranked Morgan State University among the “Best Colleges with Psychometrics and Quantitative Psychology Degrees in the U.S.”