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Using the theory of planned behaviour to predict observed driving behaviour
Mark A Elliott1, Christopher J Armitage, Christopher J Baughan
1Department of Psychology, University of Strathclyde, 40 George Street, Glasgow G1 1QE, UK. emarkelliott@aol.com
The British Journal of Social Psychology
|March 16, 2007
Summary
The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) effectively predicts drivers' intentions and self-reported speeding. Driver intention was the key factor influencing actual observed speeding behaviour and compliance with speed limits.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Transportation Safety
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Understanding psychosocial factors influencing driver behavior is crucial for road safety.
- The theory of planned behaviour (TPB) provides a framework for examining intentions and actions.
- Previous research has explored TPB in various contexts, but its application to observed driving speed requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To test the predictive ability of psychosocial variables, specifically the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), on driver behavior.
- To examine the relationship between TPB constructs, driver intentions, and actual driving speed.
- To assess the effectiveness of TPB in predicting both self-reported and observed speeding behavior.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 150 participants completed TPB questionnaire measures at Time 1.
- Driver behavior, including speeding, was assessed one week later via self-reports and a high-fidelity driving simulator.
- Multiple regression and survival analyses were employed to analyze the data.
Main Results:
- The TPB significantly predicted drivers' intentions and self-reported speeding behavior.
- Driver intention emerged as the sole significant predictor of observed speeding behavior in the driving simulator.
- Intention also demonstrated predictive power for maintaining compliance with speed limits over time.
Conclusions:
- The theory of planned behaviour is a valuable framework for understanding drivers' intentions and self-reported speeding.
- Driver intention is a critical determinant of actual, observed speeding behavior and adherence to speed limits.
- Findings have implications for developing targeted interventions to improve driver safety and reduce speeding.
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