Prediction of helmet use among motorcyclists in Perlis using structural equation model (SEM)

Abstract

The subscale factors of Theory of Planned Behaviour and Health Belief Modeltoward behaviour and intention of proper helmet use among motorcyclists in Perlis were investigated. Through this study, the relationship between construct variable and target behaviour also were determined. An interdisciplinary approach that involves behavioural sciences, injury prevention and engineering aspect all together are proved a better solution as it has the potential to enhance efforts to reduce unintentional injuries. Behavioural science when combined with engineering, epidemiology and other disciplines creates a full picture of the often fragmented injury puzzle and informs comprehensive solutions. It presents a new approach in enhancing the safety of motorcycle riders through proper usage of safety helmet. There are two methods will be used in this study. The first method is an observation and survey on helmet usage among motorcyclists those using motorcycles in daily activity. The observation would be carried-out at six zones locations including three in country side and three in residential areas. Two weeks of observation will be carried out within half-an hour as early 7.30 a.m. to 8.00 a.m. and rush hour at 5.30 p.m. to 6.00 p.m. The location is located in the middle of Kangar, Arau, and Kuala Perlis, for urban area. Meanwhile, for residential area are located at Wang Ulu, Bintong, and Wang Besar. The second method is face-to-face interviews that carried out with motorcyclist. Each one of them will be asked to fill-up a self-administered questionnaire form. If a motorcyclist refused to cooperate, another respondent will be approached and prior to giving the questionnaire, and the way they are using safety helmet will be recorded separately. The survey activities will be carried out for two weeks. The locations of data collection will be the same as the first method so that a comparison between these two methods will be determined. While, the questionnaire consists of five sections, which are background, riding experience, knowledge and attitude, and behavioural sciences model. The information will be collected using a seven-point Likert scale (1=strongly disagree to 7=strongly agree) except for self-reported on helmet use (1=never to 7=always) in response to statements about these variables. As a result, The TPB suggests that health-related activities will be predicted from one‟s beliefs about the consequences of performing a specific activity, one‟s positive or negative evaluations of those consequences, one‟s perception that important others support the performance of the behaviour, and one‟s motivation to comply with those others. While, the HBM proposes that one‟s health-related activities will be predicted from the individual‟s motivations and his or her perceptions of susceptibility to illness, severity of illness, and the probability that a behavioural change will reduce the risks of illness.Finally, it should be stressed that although the regression equations that resulted from this analysis were highly correlated with behaviour, neither the set of factors that make up the HBM nor the set of factors that make up the TPB accounted for a large proportion of the variance in behaviour. Obviously then factors other than those investigated here influence the decision to wear the safety helmet properly. As a conclusion, the purpose of the study was to do some research about intention and behaviour of wearing safety helmet properly among motorcyclists in Perlis in selected study areas. Through this study, we have found the factors and problem statement about the awareness of wearing safety helmet properly among motorcyclists in Perlis. By focusing on the location and study area, the questionnaire was distributed to visitors, and also a reference to the needs respondents. The objective of this study also was achieved.