This article argues that a combination of factors including risk perceptions, locus of control, and chronic stress influences farmers' intentions to behave safely. To demonstrate how these intervening variables influence behavioral intentions, results of 16 empirical research projects are superimposed upon an extensive literature review. Analyses include data collected from 3165 respondents via survey questionnaires, couple and key informant interviews, quasi-experimental evaluation instruments, and focus group dialogue. Using Ajzen's framework, this multilayered research process yields a wealth of both qualitative and quantitative data to support the argument. The results suggest that information alone will not affect behavior. Only when chronic stressors from occupational and structural processes are alleviated and coping mechanisms introduced, the political economy of farming improves, and farm populations perceive that they are in control of their work environment will meaningful reduction in agricultural injuries and agricultural-related disease be possible.
The hypothesis, "appropriate farm health and safety knowledge increases as a result of attendance at a one-act Spanish play enacted by a community players' group" was validated since 13 of 17 questions showed a significant degree of positive knowledge change. Overall, participants indicated that they liked the plays, recalled the story lines easily, and would attend additional plays if given the opportunity.
Social and behavioral scientists have been challenged to discover factors that contribute to hazardous conditions on the farm. In the current study, the relationships between personal and significant others' attitudes concerning safety, perceptions of behavioral control, stress, habit or repetitive farming practice, and frequency of engaging in safety precautions were investigated. One hundred ninety-nine male and female farmers completed study questionnaires prior to participating in stress reduction workshops held throughout Eastern Washington during 1994-95. Results indicated that safety behaviors were influenced by different variables for respondents who had a prior history of minor injuries on the farm than for those individuals who had experienced major injuries. Methodological concerns and recommendations for future research and intervention strategies are discussed. [Article copies available for a fee from The Haworth Document Delivery Service: 1-800-342-9678. E-mail address: getinfo@haworth.com]
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