Influences of social environment and psychological cognition on individuals’ behavioral intentions to reduce disaster risk in geological hazard-prone areas: An application of social cognitive theory

In light of the increasing frequency of geological disasters and the socialization of disaster risk reduction (DRR), boosting individuals’ behavioral intentions to engage in DRR is critical to the task of fostering sustainable disaster mitigation in society. Exploring the effects of the interaction between individuals’ social environment and psychological cognition on their DRR behavioral intentions is one of our most pressing concerns. This study developed an influencing factor model based on social cognitive theory, which included social trust and subjective norms as social environment factors and self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and risk perception as personal cognition factors. Cross-sectional survey data were collected by distributing 181 questionnaires to residents of Wenchuan County, Sichuan Province. Structural equation modeling was employed to investigate the factors influencing individuals’ DRR behavioral intentions. The following primary key hypothesis testing results were obtained: (1) social environment (social trust and subjective norms) had a positive effect on personal cognition (self-efficacy); (2) social environment (social trust and subjective norms) and personal cognition (self-efficacy) significantly and positively affected individuals’ DRR behavioral intentions; and (3) individuals’ intentions to engage in DRR behaviors had a significant positive impact on their actual DRR behaviors. Three strategies for improving individuals’ DRR behavioral intentions and behaviors are discussed based on previously proposed hypothetical paths, including facilitating the establishment of a trustworthy DRR environment, enhancing individuals’ perception of DRR ability, and narrowing the gap between intentions and behaviors. Theoretical guidance and practical suggestions are provided for socializing risk mitigation and strengthening disaster risk management capabilities, which can help policymakers better understand the influencing factors and pathways associated with improving individuals’ behavioral intentions to reduce disaster risk.