A model of factor analysis: Reasons for using a helmet in a sample of non-competitive Italian cyclists

Introduction: The increased bicycle use for transport as an alternative to motorized vehicles
has by now become a common occurrence in all Italian cities. Even though the benefits
of using a helmet to protect against trauma in bicycle accidents have been demonstrated,
its use is still limited. The objective of this study is to analyse those motivations for helmet
wearing that can influence their adoption.
Methods: Data was gathered through an online questionnaire in collaboration with the
Federazione Italiana Amici della Bicicletta (Italian Federation of Friends of the Bicycle), a
recreational cyclists association.
Motivations to use a helmet were investigated using a factorial analysis model. Factors
were analysed through a points allocation system and compared according to gender, area
of residence and whether the cyclist was a helmet-enthusiast.
Results: The sample was made up of 1781 individuals, with a declining participation rate
from North to South; 63% of respondents were men.
Three factors were identified from the sample: helmet use as a safety benefit; helmets
being perceived as a hindrance; and helmet used out of habit as well as to follow the virtuous
example of friends and/or acquaintances during cycling outings. The major kinds of
evidence are: regarding gender, differences in the perception of a helmet as a hindrance (p
< 0.001) and its use out of habit (p < 0.001); as for area of residence, differences in the perception
of a helmet as a hindrance (p = 0.01) and its use out of habit (p < 0.01); as regards
being a helmet-enthusiast, differences were found for all the factors (p < 0.01).
Conclusions: These results contribute to understanding the scenario that affects motivational
beliefs through facilitating or deterring cyclists from using a helmet during recreational
cycling. The evidence suggests how to argue the helmet use discussion among
Italians. In such a homogeneous population of respondents in terms of passion for cycling,
opinions on helmet use were dissimilar from the point of view of both its perception and
the subsequent motivation for using it.
Exploring perceptions and motivations on helmet use is a key element in understanding
cyclists’ behaviour in order to characterize different users. A combination of friends/peer
influence, reduction in the perception of helmets as a hindrance, and reinforcing of safety
could represent the starting point for planning interventions.