Abstract:
Behavior plays an important role in developing individual perception and
attitude, which assist in making decisions, and especially in selecting transportation
modes. Among various theories, the theory of planned behavior (TPB) and
interpersonal behavior (TIB) are used to determine users’ intentions in using
paratransit service in an area with conservative social norms, status-conscious and
Asian culture as compared to developed nations. In this study, various contextual
factors were investigated to determine the behavior of people. These factors are
processed through the structural equation modeling technique to determine the effects
of all considered constructs. It is revealed that attitude and perceived behavioral
control were significant predictors of intentions. Additionally, it is further influenced
by positive emotions indirectly through attitude and perceived behavioral control.
Unlike other studies, negative emotions have not been found to be significant across
all paths. This indicates that positive emotions play a significant role in shaping
behavior to choose travel mode. However, affect remains insignificant, although it has
found a significant impact on intentions through attitude. Therefore, experiences from
travel patterns are fruitful in developing their cognition, based on which they will be
able to decide whether to choose or not. The findings also revealed that females are
more inclined towards using paratransit than males. The implications of the discussed
matters would impact the shaping of transit policies and strategies for attaining
sustainability.
