Application of Behavior Change Theory to the Development

BEHAVIOR CHANGE THEORY
feedback and a choice of strategies. Consciousness-raising regarding the seriousness of
the traffic record, and fostering dramatic relief were the techniques drawn from earlystage
strategies. Finally, contingency management (negative) was the only technique
taken from the late-stage strategies. A questionnaire was also included in the study,
and respondents indicated on it that they liked that the letter offered them a choice of
strategies to change their driving behavior.
Table 11
Sherman & Ratz, 1979: Probation by Mail Letter
Design Characteristics Score General stage Score Early stage Score Late stage Score
Participation rate 70% 0 Systematic feedback 3 Consciousness raising 2 Stimulus control 0
No-treatment control 0 Personal
responsibility
Random assignment 4 Direct advice 0 Environmental
reevaluation
Similar subject
characteristics
Blinded to random
schedule
Temporality 4 Strengthen selfefficacy
0 Dramatic relief 2 Helping relationships 0
33
0 Counter conditioning 0
4 Choice of strategy 3 Social liberation 0 Contingency
management
0 Express empathy 0 Self reevaluation 0 Self liberation 0
0
Total 12 6 4 1
However, the researchers did not avail themselves of the majority of strategies in the
TTM. No reminders were made of the driver’s personal responsibility for the current
predicament. Direct advice was not provided and there was no hint of empathy or an
attempt to strengthen self-efficacy. Of the early-stage techniques, environmental
reevaluation, social liberation and self-reevaluation appeals were not utilized. The
researchers did not employ four of the five late-stage strategies including stimulus
control, helping relationships, counter conditioning, and self-liberation.
The six month results found a significant difference (F [1, 7741] = 5.57, p < .02) between
the two groups, with probation-by-mail subjects accumulating 8% more convictions
plus failures-to-appear. No significant finding between the two groups were
discovered either for total accidents or fatal and injury accidents.
Marsh (1985-1995)
RATINGS (Averages 1985-1995):
(See Table 2 for individual year details.)
Design Quality: 23.33
Regular Warning Letter: 11.3/33
Alcohol Warning Letter: 12.3/33
1