Extending the theory of planned behavior: The role of behavioral options and additional factors in predicting speed behavior

The theory of planned behavior (TPB) has been successfully predicting behavior with a small number of factors. Nonetheless, to increase its predictive power we introduced several behavioral options and additional factors in the same prediction model about drivers' self-reported speed behavior on a road with a speed limit of 90 km/h. We investigated the TPB factors as well as descriptive norms, perceived similarity with/description of the prototypical driver, and past behavior with respect to three speed options (<= 90 km/h; [91 - 110 km/h]; +110 km/h). We also added self-description as a driver, comparative judgments about speeding risks, frequency of passengers, driving-related sensation seeking, and driving anger. Thus, 1192 French young drivers filled in an extended TPB questionnaire about speed behavior and driving history. Participants reported driving at 101.85 km/h on a road with a speed limit of 90 km/h. The three options added 13% in the explained variance of speed behavior. A total of 60% of the variance in speed behavior was accounted for, with intentions to three options and perceived similarity with the driver complying and driving over 110 km/h as the best predictors. The implications of the results were discussed. (C) 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.