The Role of Self‐identity in the Theory of Planned Behavior: A Meta‐Analysis

Abstract

The present study used meta‐analysis to evaluate the role of self‐identity in the theory of planned behavior (TPB). Altogether, 40 independent tests ( N = 11607) could be included in the review. A large, sample‐weighted average correlation between self‐identity and behavioral intention was observed ( r + = .47). Multiple regression analyses showed that self‐identity explained an increment of 6% of the variance in intention after controlling for the TPB components, and explained an increment of 9% of the variance when past behavior and the TPB components were controlled. The influence of self‐identity on behavior was largely mediated by the strength of behavioral intentions. Theoretical implications of the findings are discussed.