ABSTRACT
Pender's health promotion model was used as the conceptual framework for analyzing the relationship among health value, locus of control, and other cues influencing the use of a safety belt by adolescents. The sample consisted of 320 11th and 12th graders. A mandatory safety belt law had been in effect in the state for 11 months when it was repealed 6 months prior to this study. Data were collected by questionnaires. The theory was supported in part by study results. Adolescents reported higher safety belt use during the time the law was in effect, and those who learned to drive during that period reported higher safety belt use than those who learned to drive when no law was in effect. Parents'/friends' safety belt use and perceived benefits of safety belt use was positively correlated with adolescent's use. The number of perceived barriers was negatively correlated with safety belt use. Locus of control and health value were not significantly correlated with belt use. Based on these findings, there are educational and legislative opportunities for increasing adolescent safety belt use.
