Child Passenger Safety Behaviors in Latino Communities

Abstract

Booster seats protect child occupants between 4 and 8 years of age. The objective of this study was to determine barriers and facilitators for booster seat use among Latino families. We conducted one-to-one elicitation interviews with 56 mothers and 35 fathers of booster-eligible Latino children in an urban county and a rural county in Washington State. Half of the parents did not consistently use booster seats. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, translated, and coded. Statements expressed by at least one-third of respondents were entered into explanatory models. Motivators for booster use were child safety and concern about getting a ticket. Facilitators for booster use included affordability, ease of use, and children liking the seat. Barriers were the belief that the child was too big/old, perceived child resistance, and cost. Rural parents preferred radio to television messages. Campaign messages highlighting the risks to child safety and the risk of a citation are likely to motivate booster seat use among Latino families.