Combining TPB and trip characteristics to explain children’s active travel

This study investigates the mobility patterns of children and their determinants, focusing on the applicability of the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) in explaining children’s travel mode use. The research includes surveys and travel diaries of 71 children (6th and 7th grade), encompassing 1,265 trips. By combining individual dispositions according to the TPB with situational variables, we developed trip-based structural equation models. The analysis shows that children’s travel behavior, particularly walking and cycling, is shaped primarily by situational factors such as trip distance and weather. Nevertheless, attitudes remain relevant, especially for choices involving cycling, where they align more closely with TPB predictions. Walking, in contrast, is often not perceived by children as a distinct travel mode. From a methodological perspective, the study demonstrates that integrating psychological and situational dynamics offers valuable insights. These results underscore the need for tailored approaches in sustainable mobility planning for younger age groups.