Predicting risky driving behaviours using the theory of planned behaviour: A meta-analysis

Abstract

The current meta-analysis explored the efficacy of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) in predicting high-risk driving behaviours. Specifically, we examined speeding (in relation to exceeding the limit as well as speed compliance), driving under the influence, distracted driving, and seat belt use. We searched four electronic databases (i.e., PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest) and included original studies that quantitatively measured the relationships between the TPB variables (attitude, subjective norm, perceived behavioural control [PBC], intention, and prospective/objective behaviour). The study identified 80 records with 94 independent samples. Studies were assessed for risk of bias using the JBI checklist for cross-sectional studies and compliance with the TPB guidelines. Together, attitude, subjective norm and PBC explained between 30 % and 51 % of variance found in intention, with attitude showing as the strongest predictor for intention across the different driving behaviours. The findings also showed that the model explained 36 %–48 % variance found in predicting the observed and/or prospective behaviours for distracted driving, speed compliance and speeding. Understanding the varying strengths and thus relative importance of TPB constructs in predicting different risky driving behaviours is crucial for developing targeted road safety interventions.