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Guidance on Messaging to Avoid Psychological Reactance and Address Moral Disengagement
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2021-07-01
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Edition:Final Report (January 2019 – July 2021)
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Abstract:The purpose of this project was to determine if the prevalence of psychological reactance and moral disengagement are higher among adult drivers who never or rarely wear their seat belts or who drive aggressively (i.e., speed, follow too closely, and pass excessively) and to identify potential messaging to minimize reactance and overcome moral disengagement regarding seat belt use and aggressive driving. Surveys revealed that those who rarely or never used a seat belt were found to exhibit more situational psychological reactance (in response to two messages about seat belt use) and exhibit more moral disengagement than people who usually or always used a seat belt. No differences in proneness to psychological reactance were found based on seat belt use. Those who frequently drove aggressively were found to exhibit more proneness and situational psychological reactance and exhibit more moral disengagement than people who rarely or never drove aggressively. Recommendations for message content to increase seatbelt use and reduce aggressive driving are provided as well as guidance on message components that reduce psychological reactance and moral disengagement. Supportive materials developed included two information sheets, one message brief, presentation slides, and a summary poster.
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[PDF-1.73 MB]
