THE ROLE OF ECONOMIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL VARIABLES IN PARKING VIOLATIONS

This study explored some of the factors involved in parking violations , using as a framework the model of tax evasion developed by Weigel, e t al. (1987). Two groups of parkers were observed, offenders (N = 121) and non-offenders (N = 128). Two questionnaires were employed. An ini tial questionnaire was used at the time of the observed behaviour to a scertain situation-specific factors followed by the main questionnaire which measured attitudes, moral beliefs, social norms and controls, p erceived risk and severity of punishment and personal characteristics. Results revealed that the Weigel et al. model was a good predictor of parking violation with both economic and psychological factors being important determinants. There was also a significant correlation betwe en observed and self-reported behaviour. implications for understandin g rule-breaking behaviour in general are also discussed.