Prediction of helmet use among Iranian motorcycle drivers: an application of the health belief model and the theory of planned behavior.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the predictors of self-reported motorcycle helmet use in a sample of motorcycle riders in Bandar Abbas, Iran. The theory of planed behavior and the health belief model served as the conceptual framework for the study.

METHODS

In total, 221 male motorcycle drivers participated in this cross-sectional study. A self-administered questionnaire, including demographic characteristics and items related to both the theory of planned behavior and the health belief model constructs, was used to collect data.

RESULTS

The mean age of the subjects was 26.8 years (SD = 7.2). Multiple regression analyses revealed that perceived behavioral control significantly predicted the intention to use a motorcycle helmet (R(2)= 0.47, F = 19.5, p < .001); also, perceived behavioral control and behavioral intention significantly predicted motorcycle helmet use (R(2)= 0.49, F = 51.7, p < .001). Moreover, perceived barriers, self-efficacy, and cues to action significantly predicted motorcycle helmet use (R(2)= 0.35, F = 19.5, p < .001).

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that motorcycle drivers who perceived a high level of behavioral control, intention to use a motorcycle helmet, few barriers, high self-efficacy, and a high number of cues to action were the most likely to use a motorcycle helmet.