Drug driving is a significant road safety concern, yet little research has examined the behavioural mechanisms underpinning rehabilitation programmes designed to reduce reoffending. This study applies an intervention mapping approach to articulate the theoretical basis of a UK drug-driving behaviour change intervention delivered to drivers convicted of drug-driving offences. The intervention aims to reduce intentions to drug drive and increase awareness of the health, legal and social consequences associated with impaired driving.

Intervention mapping was used to identify the intended outcomes of each course component and link these to behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and theoretical mechanisms of action. Course content includes reflective discussions about the circumstances leading to drug-driving offences, exploration of perceived safety and decision-making processes, information about the physiological and cognitive effects of drugs on driving, and consideration of wider social and environmental consequences. Participants also reflect on their own drug use, recognise signs of problematic use, and identify sources of support.

Preliminary mapping indicates that the intervention incorporates multiple BCTs from Michie et al.’s BCT Taxonomy, including information about health and social consequences, re-attribution, social comparison, problem solving and social support. These techniques target key behavioural determinants such as risk perception, social norms, self-reflection, and awareness of triggers for drug-driving behaviour as well as techniques to implement change such as problem solving. The mapping process aligns the intervention with the COM-B model to clarify how components target drivers’ capability, opportunity, and motivation.

This work increases transparency regarding the intervention’s theoretical mechanisms and supports evaluation of its effectiveness in reducing intentions to drug drive.

Beth Jones, Research Officer, Leeds Beckett University

Beth Jones is a Research Officer and PhD student specialising in behaviour change. Her work draws on qualitative and quantitative methods to explore why people behave as they do and how interventions can influence those behaviours.

Beth’s primary area of expertise is applying behaviour change theory to road safety. Her PhD examines strategies to reduce drug driving by evaluating a targeted behaviour change intervention designed to influence drivers’ attitudes, decision-making and risk perceptions. Through this work, Beth aims to contribute to the development of more effective approaches to preventing drug-impaired driving and improving road safety.