Satisfaction with travel, goal achievement, and voluntary behavioral change

The potential effectiveness of soft policy measures aimed at reduced car use depends on how car users experience these. A common measure being implemented is a free monthly travel card valid for a limited period on public transport (PT). In this study, a total of 321 car commuters living in Värmland, Sweden were recruited into such a program. The goal was to use PT between home and work at least three times a week over a period of four weeks. Immediately after completion of the program, the participants answered a follow-up questionnaire. The Satisfaction with Travel Scale (STS) was used to measure their travel experiences. They were also asked to rate their goal achievement. A process model was used during the analyses. Regression analysis showed that the distance from home to the nearest bus stop had a significantly negative effect on the STS. The STS had a significantly positive effect on goal achievement. Both goal achievement and the STS had a significantly positive effect both on PT use and on future goals. This study shows that travel experiences and goal achievement are important for voluntary behavioral change.