The theory of reasoned action and theory of planned behaviour as a function of job control
Bunce, D.; Birdi, K.S.
British Journal of Health Psychology 3(3): 265-275
1998
ISSN/ISBN: 1359-107X DOI: 10.1111/j.2044-8287.1998.tb00573.xDocument Number: 264561
Objectives. The predictive strength of the theory of reasoned action (TRA; Fishbein & Ajzen, 1975) was compared with that of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB; Ajzen, 1991) in relation to doctors' intentions to request hospital autopsies as a function of job control, the amount of workplace autonomy an individual possesses. Past behaviour was also taken into account. Design. Two groups of doctors took part: lower grade doctors (N = 70, house officers, senior house officers, and registrars) where job control (or work autonomy) is low, and senior doctors (N = 48, senior registrars and consultants) who possess greater job control. Method. Both groups were mailed a questionnaire measuring past behaviour, attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioural control and intentions relating to requesting hospital autopsies. Results. Among lower grade doctors, perceived behavioural control strongly predicted intentions, whereas among senior doctors this association was weaker. In addition, we found that past behaviour independently predicted intentions among senior doctors. Conclusions. In circumstances of high behavioural control the Tpb collapses to the TRA, and past behaviour is likely to have an independent influence on intentions in situations of high behavioural control where routine behaviour has developed.