Impact of Peer to Peer Service Learning on Teen Seat Belt Use in Jackson, Mississippi

Mississippi ranks last, at 60.8%, among the 50 states in the overall rate of seat belt use. Within the State of Mississippi, urban African American males, 15-19, have the lowest (18%) seat belt usage rates of all sub-population groups. This research was funded by the CDC as part of a multi-faceted, community-wide campaign to increase seatbelt usage among motorists ages 15 to 19 in Jackson, MS. A specific aim of this project was to evaluate the effectiveness of school-based, peer-to-peer, service-learning on seatbelt use by high school students in the Jackson public high schools. Changes in knowledge, attitudes and awareness about seat belt use among teens were assessed through a school-based student survey administered at the beginning and end of the school year. Changes in teen seat belt usage was measured through bi-monthly observations at intersections near schools and at randomly selected street intersections in the community. Preliminary study results found overall improvements in seat belt knowledge, attitudes and seat belt usage. In addition, the quality of service-learning and level of direct involvement were found to be predictors of personal development, school and community engagement, seat belt awareness and knowledge. In addition, reflection/discussion was found to be a predictor of personal development, school and community engagement, seat belt awareness and knowledge. Reflection/writing was also found to be a predictor of personal efficacy, self-confidence, and persuasive behavior. Results of this study support the use of service learning as an effective intervention for increasing teen seat belt knowledge, attitudes, and usage.