Contemplating cycling to work: Attitudes and perceptions in different stages of change
In 2005, a double research project was undertaken by Birgitta Gatersleben to investigate perceptions of the daily commute by University staff, and an experiment to promote cycling to work. Participant’s attitudes during different stages of change were recorded and analysed, with a follow-up intervention implemented using aspects of the Transtheoretical Model.
The Transtheoretical model (TTM) (Prochaska & DiClemente, 1982) is an influential psychological theory in behaviour change, recently applied towards sustaining physical activity. The model categorises people into different stages of readiness to change, and building on this, research was developed to examine attitudes among those at different stages, and applying the theory for travel behaviour.
A questionnaire was designed and sent to all staff at the University of Surrey, based in the South-East. The university, located at the top of a hill, had recently implemented a travel plan restricting car parking spaces to those outside of a 2-mile radius of the campus. Questions covered travel mode, commuting time, distance, and perceptions of alternate travel modes; which were then used to classify staff into the different stages of change. The results showed that those who had never considered cycling were aware of the benefits (health & environment) but personal barriers (unfit & uncharacteristic) held them back.
The second study recruited 22 participants from the questionnaire to take part in an intervention to promote cycling. Participants had never cycled to work before, though were interested in changing, and 53% normally travelled by car. For two weeks, participants kept travel diaries and recorded details of their journeys, using a bike as often as possible. Results showed promising results, with all but one participant describing the experience as ‘pleasant’ at least. When asked about their intentions to cycle in the future, 36% said they would regularly cycle to the University, and 45% would cycle occasionally, depending on weather.
To find out more about this project, please see:
Gatersleben, B. & Apleton, K. (2007) Contemplating cycling to work; attitudes and perceptions in different stages of change. Transportation Research Part A: policy and Practice, 41, 302-312.
