Behavioral Perspectives on Adolescents' Mode Choice: A Theoretical Framework for Safe and Sustainable School Commutes

Adolescents' daily journeys to school reflect far more than simple transportation choices - they echo perceptions of safety, social influence, and psychological readiness. This study integrates four behavioral frameworks - the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB), Social Cognitive Theory (SCT), the Norm Activation Model (NAM), and the Health Belief Model (HBM) - to examine the layered motivations and deterrents behind students' transport mode selection. While walking and cycling are viewed favorably, these intentions often break down in the face of perceived risks, infrastructural shortcomings, and restrictive parental norms. Drawing on empirical insights, the study finds that perceived behavioral control, peer modeling, and tangible infrastructure quality significantly shape commuting decisions, Interventions grounded in behavioral science - such as gamified initiatives, family engagement, and school-led campaigns - demonstrate greater effectiveness when paired with safe, well-designed public spaces. This research calls for integrative, multi-level approaches that treat active commuting not merely as a health goal, but as a shared civic responsibility. Future research should incorporate longitudinal methods and objective tracking tools to better assess change over time.