NCJ Number
115997
Journal
Alcohol, Drugs and Driving Volume: 4 Issue: 3-4 Dated: (July-December 1988) Pages: 297-304
Date Published
1988
Length
8 pages
Annotation
Four hundred adult drivers and 709 drivers under age 18 in Michigan were surveyed to determine their values, beliefs, and attitudes regarding the use of seat belts in automobiles.
Abstract
Adults were surveyed by telephone, while the youths completed the survey in classes in school. In the sample of young drivers, five variables emerged as significant predictors of seat belt use: 1) attitudes related to the comfort and convenience of belts, 2) the value of free choice in deciding to buckle up, 3) the belief that driving is risky, 4) the value of adhering to social pressure to use belts, and 5) the belief in the belt's ability to do its job. These five variables accounted for 47 percent of the variance. For the adult sample, the significant predictors of belt use included the same five variables as well as age and the value of maintaining good health. This model accounted for 44 percent of the variance. Findings indicated that both education and enforcement are necessary to improve compliance rates and that information campaigns should focus on the intrinsic merits of seat belts rather than on the laws regarding their use. Tables and 13 references. (Author abstract modified)