Predicting motivational determinants of seatbelt non-use in the front seat: A field study

Abstract

This study attempted to examine various motivational determinants of seatbelt non-use in the front seat of vehicles in Japan, based on the assumption that today's seatbelt non-users possess a clear volition to stay unrestrained. A field study was conducted at a shopping centre to obtain observed as well as self-reported seatbelt use/non-use behaviour and relevant psychosocial factors. A questionnaire survey was carried out immediately after the observation of seatbelt use/non-use (N = 381), which was designed utilising the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) as a reference guide, with an emphasis on different components of attitudes. On a separate occasion, two focus group interviews (N = 11) were conducted to supplement results of the field study with in-depth qualitative data. Results of structural equation modelling showed that both reported and observed seatbelt use behaviour could be explained by intention to use seatbelt. Furthermore, the behavioural intention was predicted by self-efficacy, instrumental attitudes towards and descriptive norm to use seatbelts. The experience of being ticketed for seatbelt non-use also predicted reported and observed seatbelt non-use. However, there was a considerable discrepancy between self-reported and observed use of seatbelts. Findings suggest that seatbelt non-users in the front seat harbour mistrust of seatbelt use, and are resistant to social pressure to wear belts. However, these attitudes could be addressed by a well-designed remedial intervention with a focus on disentangling false belief underlying in their action, thereby enhancing safety-oriented behaviour.