Psychological predictors of walking and cycling behaviour change: An iConnect study

Bird, E; Panter, J; Baker, G; Jones, T; Ogilvie, D

Abstract

Aim: This study examined whether an extended version of the Theory of Planned Behaviour (eTPB) predicted change in walking and cycling for transport and recreation using observational cohort survey data collected as part of the wider iConnect study (www.iconnect.ac.uk).

Background: Numerous studies have examined the extent to which the Theory of Planned Behaviour explains and predicts walking and cycling behaviour. However, there has been limited consideration of the psychological factors that predict change in walking and cycling behaviour; factors that may be important in the development of walking and cycling behaviour change interventions.

Methodology: Baseline, 1-year and 2-year follow-up iConnect study data, collected from three UK municipalities (Cardiff, Kenilworth and Southampton), were analysed. Nine psychological constructs from the eTPB as well as weekly time spent (i) walking and (ii) cycling, each (i) for transport and (ii) for recreation, were self-reported at all time points. Multinomial logistic regression was used to examine the associations between baseline eTPB constructs and (i) increases and (ii) decreases in the four behavioural outcomes, adjusted for socio-demographic characteristics.

Results: 1,796 and 1,465 participants provided 1- and 2-year follow-up data, respectively. Time spent walking (minutes per week) increased more than time spent cycling in both samples. All eTPB constructs, with the exception of ‘subjective norms’, were associated with changes in at least one of the four outcomes, but these amounted to relatively few significant associations among the large number tested. In general, eTPB constructs were more often associated with increases than with decreases in time spent walking and cycling.

Conclusions: Findings revealed limited support for the eTPB model as a whole. However, future interventions to promote walking and cycling for transport and recreation through individually delivered approaches might consider fostering the development of positive attitudes, intentions and habits for these behaviours.

• Presentation Conference Type: Conference Paper (unpublished)
• Conference Name: South West Public Health Scientific Conference
• Start Date: Mar 13, 2018
• End Date: Mar 13, 2018
• Acceptance Date: Dec 22, 2017
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/877094
• Related Public URLs: http://publichealth.severndeanery.nhs.uk/training/event-info/scientific-conference-2017-programme/plenary-and-parallel-session-abstracts?stage=Stage
• Additional Information: Title of Conference or Conference Proceedings : South West Public Health Scientific Conference