YOUNG ADOLESCENTS INTENTION TO USE SEAT BELTS - THE ROLE OF ATTITUDINAL AND NORMATIVE BELIEFS

In this study, the Theory of Reasoned Action was applied for two diffe rent purposes: (i) to explain and predict seat-belt usage among young adolescents, and (ii) to investigate the specific cognitions underlyin g the decision to use seat belts. A detailed analysis of these cogniti ons may provide clues as to which beliefs one should try to change in order to improve seat-belt usage among young adolescents. The decision to wear seat belts was under attitudinal control in the front seat, w hile it was under both attitudinal and normative control in the back s eat. However, prior use of seat belts was the single most powerful pre dictor of intention. There was a striking consistency in the differenc e between high intenders and low intenders with regard to the specific underlying cognitions. The most promising 'messages' for persuasive c ommunication appears to be that use of seat belts has an injury reduci ng effect and makes one feel safe when driving.