Psychosocial determinants of helmet use among young motorcyclists

The use of helmets among motorcyclists is important as protection against fatalities in road crashes. Although previous studies have identified psychosocial factors that influence helmet-use behaviour, they have not considered how these factors apply within different riding contexts that may encourage (pro-helmet condition) or discourage helmet use (anti-helmet condition). Accordingly, the current study examined the combined and unique roles of attitude, self-efficacy, descriptive norm, threat perception, past helmet use behaviour, and intentions on helmet use in pro and anti-helmet conditions. A total of 628 licensed motorcyclists aged 18–24 years from the Greater Jakarta responded to helmet use questions in different scenarios. Results showed that in pro-helmet conditions, females were more likely to wear helmets than males. Meanwhile, in anti-helmet conditions, helmet use was predicted by descriptive norm, helmet use intention, perceived susceptibility, gender, and past behaviour. These findings suggest that when external incentives for helmet use are limited, it is important to examine how individuals recognize potential risks and health implications, and how social norms influence helmet use. This insight can contribute to designing effective interventions aimed at increasing helmet use in different contexts, thereby improving road safety.