Thinking, Drinking, and Driving: Application of the Theory of Reasoned Action to DWI Prevention

This study drew upon the theory of reasoned action (TRA) to predict the intention to drive while intoxicated (DWI). Four hypotheses were tested using telephone survey data from a random sample of 1,259 adult residents of Bemalillo County, New Mexico. Results showed the TRA to be predictive across a diversity of social groups. Contrary to hypotheses, subjective norms were a more powerful predictor than attitudes, and the perceived severity of DWI penalties was positively correlated with DWI intention, a paradoxical result that was explained with reference to the social environment of likely DWI offenders. The results suggest that anti-DWI public-information campaigns should stress the importance of informal social influence against drunk driving, rather than merely the legal penalties for drinking and driving.

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