Predicting Seat Belt Use Behavior among Adolescents Using the Theory of Planned Behavior and Its Extension

Aims: The rate of seat belt use among adolescents as a passenger age group is lower than that of adults. There is limited research on seat belt usage among adolescents. The present study aimed to compare the predictability of seat belt-wearing behavior among adolescents using the theory of planned behavior and its extension. Instrument & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among ۹۵۲ adolescent students as car occupants. A researcher-developed questionnaire was used for data collection. In the extended theory of planned behavior, constructs related to threat appraisal were added to the theory of planned behavior. These constructs included perceived severity, perceived rewards, and perceived sensitivity. Structural equation modeling was used to determine which theory better predicts seat belt use behavior. Findings: The mean score for seat belt use among adolescent students was unfavorable. Structural equation modeling confirmed the validity of both the theory of planned behavior and its extension in predicting seat belt use behavior among adolescents. However, in the extended theory of planned behavior, the additional constructs of threat assessment—such as perceived rewards, perceived severity, and perceived sensitivity—showed no statistically significant relationship with behavioral intention. Consequently, the inclusion of threat assessment dimensions did not enhance the prediction of seat belt-wearing behavior. Conclusion: The rate of seat belt use among adolescent students is unfavorable, and the theory of planned behavior is an appropriate framework for predicting seat belt use among this demographic.

کلیدواژه ها:

Behavior ، Seat Belt ، Students ، Adolescence ، Theory of Planned Behavior