Conscientiousness and the theory of planned behavior: Toward a more complete model of the antecedents of intentions and behavior

Two studies explored the relationship between past behavior, personality tr aits, intentions, and behavior Study 1 (N = 181) considered intentions to e ngage in goal-directed activity (health protection). Cognitions specified b y the Theory of Planned Behavior were examined as mediators of the relation ship between past behavior, personality, and intentions. The effect of cons cientiousness on intention was partially mediated by cognitions, whereas th e effect of Past behavior was partially mediated by cognitions and conscien tiousness. Study 2 (N = 123) examined predictions of intentions and self-re ported behavior in relation to both health protection and exercise, a more specific behavior. In both cases, the effect of conscientiousness on intent ion was totally mediated, whereas the effect on behavior was partially medi ated. Similarly, the effects of past behavior on intentions were totally me diated, whereas the effects on behavior were partially mediated by cognitio ns and conscientiousness. Thus, combining personality traits and cognitions provided a more sufficient account Of the determinants of intentions and b ehavior.