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A Comparative Study of Attitude Theory and other Theoretical Models for Understanding Travel Behaviour

Author

Listed:
  • Martin Dijst

    (Urban and Regional Research Centre Utrecht (URU), Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.115, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands)

  • Sendy Farag

    (Centre for Transport and Society (CTS), Faculty of the Built Environment, University of the West of England, Frenchay Campus, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol BS16 1QY, England)

  • Tim Schwanen

    (Urban and Regional Research Centre Utrecht (URU), Faculty of Geosciences, Utrecht University, PO Box 80.115, 3508 TC Utrecht, The Netherlands)

Abstract

In this study we investigate the extent to which the integration of psychological mechanisms from attitude theory into conventional analytical approaches can advance our understanding of travel behaviour. Three models, which explain volitions (intentions) in different ways, are specified and discussed: a customary model (CM) that directly links attitude and external variables (eg socio-demographics) to volition; a simplified version of the extended model of goal-directed behaviour (EMGB) that links attitude to volition via behavioural desire; and a hybrid model (HM) that integrates the two former models. Using survey data about the volition to buy media products (books, music, and DVDs, for example) online and in-store collected in four locations in the Utrecht region, the Netherlands, we find that shopping behaviour is reasonably well explained by the simplified EMGB. Past behaviour, perceived behavioural control, and subjective norms all have a statistically significant impact on the volition to shop online, while goal desire and perceived behavioural control significantly affect the volition to shop in-store. The results of the HM indicate that it is important to take external variables, such as access to physical stores and gender, into account when explaining shopping behaviour.

Suggested Citation

  • Martin Dijst & Sendy Farag & Tim Schwanen, 2008. "A Comparative Study of Attitude Theory and other Theoretical Models for Understanding Travel Behaviour," Environment and Planning A, , vol. 40(4), pages 831-847, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:sae:envira:v:40:y:2008:i:4:p:831-847
    DOI: 10.1068/a39151
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

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    2. Suel, Esra & Polak, John W., 2017. "Development of joint models for channel, store, and travel mode choice: Grocery shopping in London," Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, Elsevier, vol. 99(C), pages 147-162.
    3. Schmid, Basil & Axhausen, Kay W., 2019. "In-store or online shopping of search and experience goods: A hybrid choice approach," Journal of choice modelling, Elsevier, vol. 31(C), pages 156-180.
    4. Zuniga, Kelly Draper, 2012. "From barrier elimination to barrier negotiation: A qualitative study of parents' attitudes about active travel for elementary school trips," Transport Policy, Elsevier, vol. 20(C), pages 75-81.
    5. Dimas B. E. Dharmowijoyo & Yusak O. Susilo & Anders Karlström, 2018. "On complexity and variability of individuals’ discretionary activities," Transportation, Springer, vol. 45(1), pages 177-204, January.
    6. Tanu Priya Uteng & Jeff Turner, 2019. "Addressing the Linkages between Gender and Transport in Low- and Middle-Income Countries," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(17), pages 1-34, August.

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