The effects of modeling influences and persuasive efficacy information on self-efficacy beliefs and intentions to prevent a friend from driving drunk

This study examined how people acquire information about their abilities to cope with subjectively threatening situations. Based on Bandura's theory of self-efficacy, this thesis investigated the use of mass and instructional media to convince audiences they are capable of regulating their health behavior by learning and practicing how to manage situations that are detrimental to it. Specifically, this study built on earlier studies that found that young adult moderate drinkers hold negative attitudes toward their friend's drunken driving but are reluctant to express their concerns to them because they lack confidence in their abilities to handle the situation properly. This study tested messages that seek to remove these constraints by assuring responsible drinkers they can perform this behavior successfully and that their friends will appreciate their concern