Examination of a dual-process model predicting riding with drinking drivers

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Traffic Safety

Background:

• Alcohol-related crashes contribute significantly to fatalities, with passengers comprising nearly 20% of deaths.
• Limited research has explored theoretical frameworks for modifiable psychosocial predictors of riding with drinking drivers (RWDD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To prospectively examine a dual-process model predicting riding with drinking drivers (RWDD) in young adults.
• To identify modifiable psychosocial predictors and psychological influences (reasoned and reactive) associated with RWDD.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 508 college students who completed web-based questionnaires over 6 months.
• Assessed RWDD, psychosocial constructs (attitudes, expectancies, norms), and reasoned/reactive influences (intentions, willingness).
• Utilized regression analyses to identify proximal and distal predictors and mediation effects.

Main Results:

• Both reasoned and reactive influences predicted RWDD, with reactive influences showing a significant unique effect.
• Reactive influences mediated the impact of peer norms, attitudes, and drinking influences on RWDD.
• Parental norms were a significant predictor for females, while other effects were consistent across genders.

Conclusions:

• Reactive influences, attitudes, and peer/parent norms are key precursors to riding with drinking drivers.
• Interventions such as normative feedback, parent-based programs, and motivational interviewing show promise for reducing RWDD.