The Protection Motivation Theory as an explanatory model for Intention to use Alcohol Protective Behavioral Strategies among Young Adults

AimsThis study aimed to prospectively examine the explanatory value of the Protection Motivation Theory (PMT) for the intention to use MD PBS, and to explore its invariance across genders MethodA targeted sampling procedure was used to recruit 339 young adults in the community (Mean age = 21.1; SD = 2.21; female = 50.7%) who completed baseline and 2-month follow-up measures of the constructs of the PMT and for intentions to use each of the five MD PBS. ResultsThe results of regression analyses revealed that the coping appraisal components (response efficacy and self-efficacy) had greater explanatory power for intention to use PBS than the threat appraisal components (perceived vulnerability and perceived severity). Perceived vulnerability to alcohol consequences was not prospectively associated with any specific behavioral intention or with the total MD PBS score. In contrast, perceived severity was prospectively associated with the intention to use three out of five PBS and the total MD score. Regression coefficients showed gender invariance for all six models. ConclusionsOur findings suggest that interventions aimed at promoting motivation to use alcohol PBS among young adults could benefit the most from including components that promote self- efficacy to use PBS and the perceived usefulness of PBS for reducing alcohol-related consequences. Short SummaryThis study has shown that the coping appraisal components of Protection Motivation Theory have greater explanatory value than threat appraisal components for motivation to use Alcohol Protective Behavioral Strategies related to manner of drinking among young adults who use alcohol. Likewise, the results of this model were invariant across genders.