Young people and sun safety: the role of attitudes, norms and control factors

Abstract

Differences in the behavioural, normative and control beliefs of young Australian sun-protectors and non sun-protectors are analysed using a theory of planned behaviour belief-based framework. A questionnaire assessed the sun-safety-related beliefs and perceptions of a Queensland sample (n=858) of young people aged between 12 and 20 years. Two weeks later, participants reported their sun-protective behaviour for the previous fortnight. The study found that clear differences emerged between sun-protectors and non-protectors on underlying normative and control beliefs related to sun-safety behaviours (but not behavioural beliefs). Specifically, sun-protectors were more likely to believe that their friends and family think they should perform sun-protective behaviours. Sun-protectors were also more likely to perceive that a range of motivating factors would encourage them to perform sun-safety behaviours. Finally, non-protectors were more likely to report forgetfulness and laziness as barriers preventing them from performing sun-protection behaviours than sun-protectors. Findings indicate that future interventions should target young people's normative and control beliefs related to sun safety.