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Injury control. What psychologists can contribute
1Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, Arlington, VA.
The American Psychologist
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Psychologists are underrepresented in injury control, yet behavioral factors are crucial for prevention. This article highlights their vital role in reducing injuries, using motor vehicle incidents as a key example.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Public Health
- Injury Prevention
Background:
- Behavioral factors significantly influence injury occurrence and severity.
- The field of injury control has historically underutilized psychological expertise.
- Motor vehicle injuries represent a major public health concern with substantial behavioral components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To underscore the critical need for increased psychologist involvement in injury control.
- To illustrate the application of modern injury control principles.
- To define the potential contributions of psychologists to injury reduction strategies.
Main Methods:
- Review of current injury control principles and strategies.
- Analysis of behavioral factors contributing to motor vehicle injuries.
- Examination of existing research on psychological interventions in injury prevention.
Main Results:
- Psychologists possess unique skills to address behavioral determinants of injury.
- Integrating psychological perspectives can enhance the effectiveness of injury prevention programs.
- Specific opportunities exist for psychologists in areas like risk-taking behavior, safety compliance, and post-injury recovery.
Conclusions:
- Increased participation of psychologists is essential for advancing injury control.
- Psychological science offers valuable insights and tools for reducing injury incidence and impact.
- Future research and practice should prioritize the integration of psychology into comprehensive injury prevention efforts.