Article

The Theory of Planned Behavior Without Compatibility? Beyond Method Bias and Past Trivial Associations

Overreliance on one measurement approach can challenge accurate statements about reality, as findings can represent by-products of the compulsory measurement paradigm. Within the theory of planned behavior (TPB), the compatibility principle represents one such strictly imposed paradigm. Using 2 cross-sectional surveys of 1,394 volunteers and involving structural equation models, we demonstrate that the widely employed practice of measuring TPB constructs is confounded with method- implied bias. This means the theory cannot conclusively reveal origins of a behavior. Our results also suggest that on an aggregated level, when method bias is eliminated, its constructs are linked in hypothesized ways. Adopting a more general model— thus, adopting a more trait like conceptualization of attitudes—has interesting implications for social psychology and its current trends. This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: Kaiser, F., Schultz, P. W., & Scheuthle, H. (2007). The theory of planned behavior without compatibility? Beyond method bias and past trivial associations. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 37, 1522-1544.  http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1559-1816.2007.00225.x., which has been published in final form at  http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1559-1816.2007.00225.x This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.

Items in ScholarWorks are protected by copyright, with all rights reserved, unless otherwise indicated.