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 different purposes: (i) to explain and predict seat-belt usage among young adolescents, and (ii) to investigate the specific cognitions underlying the decision to use seat belts. A detailed analysis of these cognitions 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, while it was under both attitudinal and normative control in the back seat. However, prior use of seat belts was the single most powerful predictor of intention. There was a striking consistency in the difference between high intenders and low intenders with regard to the specific underlying cognitions. The most promising 'messages' for persuasive communication appears to be that use of seat belts has an injury reducing effect and makes one feel safe when driving.