When Does Perceived Susceptibility to Skin Cancer Influence Indoor Tanning? The Moderating Role of Two Risk Perception Beliefs

Abstract

Previous research has demonstrated an inconsistent relationship between perceived susceptibility to skin cancer and indoor tanning. The current study explored potential moderators of this relationship to better understand how risk perceptions can impact indoor tanning intentions and behavior. A national online survey (N = 267) was administered in the United States to establish the relationship between perceived susceptibility to skin cancer, cancer fatalism, and external risk attribution beliefs on indoor tanning intentions and behavior. Results revealed significant 3-way interactions among these risk perceptions on both intentions and behavior that run contrary to much of the published research on perceived susceptibility and health behavior. These findings suggest that the relationship between perceived susceptibility to skin cancer and indoor tanning is conditional on other risk perceptions. These results are discussed in terms of their theoretical and practical implications.

Funding

This research was supported in part by the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami and by a School of Communication Research Award Grant from the School of Communication at the University of Miami.

Additional information

Funding

This research was supported in part by the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami and by a School of Communication Research Award Grant from the School of Communication at the University of Miami.