Cognitive and attitudinal factors in the analysis of alternatives to drunk driving.

Abstract

The present study examined cognitive and attitudinal factors relevant to drunk-driving tendencies in individuals having zero, one and multiple drunk-driving convictions. Results indicate that the awareness of consequences of being in an accident was related to driving record but not to drunk-driving tendencies. In contrast, the awareness of consequences of being arrested for drunk driving (e.g., receiving fines, having one's name appear in the news and having a criminal record) was negatively related to drunk-driving tendencies. Attitudes toward alternatives to drunk driving (e.g., take a taxi, call a friend) were also negatively related to drunk-driving tendencies. The findings are discussed with respect to developing prevention programs.