Critical beliefs underlying young Australian males’ intentions to engage in drinking and swimming

Abstract

This study examined key targets for interventions aimed at reducing drinking and swimming among young males, an at risk group for drowning. Two hundred and eleven Australian males aged 18 to 34 years completed a Theory of Planned Behaviour belief-based questionnaire either on-line or paper-based. Behavioural beliefs of "be more relaxed" and "having fun"; normative beliefs of "friends/mates" and "parents"; and the control belief of "presence of other people", were revealed as independent predictors of intentions to drink and swim. These identified beliefs can be used to inform interventions to challenge young males' alcohol use in, on, and around water.