An application of protection motivation theory to riskier single-occasion drinking |
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| Authors: | Vered Murgraff David White Keith Phillips |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Department of Psychology , University of East London , Romford Road, London, E15 4LZ, UK;2. School of Social Sciences , Staffordshire University , College Road, Stoke-on-Trent, ST4 2DE, UK;3. School of Social Policy Sciences , University of Westminster , 309 Regent Street, London, W1R 8AL, UK |
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| Abstract: | Abstract Cognitions in relation to drinking alcohol on a single occasion were explored within the framework of Protection Motivation Theory (PMT). One hundred and twenty three students provided information about their current weekend drinking, beliefs about drinking, and intentions to drink at safer limits. Data on self reported weekend drinking were gathered two weeks later from the same respondents. Analyses showed PMT components to be predictive of intentions but not of later behaviour. Perceived severity and self-efficacy related significantly to intentions for drinking at safer limits. No PMT measure differentiated between those who engaged in riskier single-occasion drinking at follow up and those whose drinking was less risky. Past behaviour was the only significant predictor of riskier single-occasion drinking at follow up. Implications for the current utility of PMT are discussed particularly in relation to respondents' reactions to newly identified health threats. |
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| Keywords: | Protection motivation single-occasion drinking intentions behaviour behaviour change past behaviour. |
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