Investigating justifications concerning transport mode choice in order to promote public transport

This study investigates the reasons workers refer to in order to justify car or public transportation use when going to work. Seventy-five persons living and working in Ile de France were interviewed (23 used their car and 52 used public transportation). Our results confirmed that the reasons given to justify choices concerning means of transport differ according to the one people use. Indeed when they drive to work people refer to freedom, independence and pleasure whereas when they use public transportation, the reasons are economical or environmental. Cars still have a more positive image than other means of transport. (C) 2009 Societe francaise de psychologie. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.