“One text or Call Could wreck It All”: the Role of the Extended Parallel Process Model in Guiding Campaigns Against Distracted Driving

Studies show that texting while driving is widespread (Lennon, Rentfro, & o’Leary, 2010), leading to numerous accidents and deaths (waugh, 2010). This article proposes using the Extended Parallel Process Model (EPPM; witte, 1992; 1998) to understand texting while driving behaviors and to guide the design, implementation, and evaluation of communication campaigns against distracted driving. This article also identifies, presents, and analyzes, in terms of their fit with EPPM, 11 campaigns against texting while driving. Results show existent campaigns are able to make drivers aware of the dangers associated with texting while driving but could do more to encourage behavior change.