FREQUENCY AND STRUCTURE OF PRECAUTIONARY BEHAVIOR IN THE DOMAINS OF HAZARD PREPAREDNESS, CRIME-PREVENTION, VEHICULAR SAFETY, AND HEALTH MAINTENANCE

A sample of 831 adults were interviewed by researchers using a 72-item inventory about their precautionary behaviors and attitudes. Explorat ory and confirmatory factor analyses conducted on random halves of the sample provided evidence of consistency and structure in precautionar y behavior both within and across domains of concern. Hazard preparedn ess activities clustered into having basic supplies on hand, advance p lanning, and hazard alertness. Crime prevention acts organized accordi ng to person protection, neighborly cooperation, and professional guid ance. Vehicular safety factored into auto care, responsible driving, a nd seat belt use. Health maintenance activities entailed healthy habit s (diet and exercise), risk monitoring, and avoiding tobacco and alcoh ol. Higher order factor analyses evidenced intra-individual consistenc y in the use of Disciplined, Vigilant, and Proactive Behaviors across precautionary domains. At all levels, perceptions of the usefulness of precautionary measures were related strongly to the frequency of self -protective acts.