Robbie,
The role model approach does not seem to have increased helmet use among
children in recent history has it?
Parents are generally more interested in protecting their children than
themselves so convincing parents to seek out helmets for their children
as a matter of law/rule/policy is likely a more prudent approach.
Children are really good at pointing out the hypocrisy of their parents.
Parents are more likely to respond to the incessant prodding of their
children than policy makers. Sometimes children are the better role models.
Children seldom see their teachers, community leaders or celebrities
riding bikes let alone wearing helmets. Children see children riding
bikes and if they are all wearing helmets the mold is made.
Peer behavior is way more powerful than the rare or occasional boss,
teacher, celebrity, or community leader wearing a helmet.
Not sure I agree with Robbie's take on child psychology.
Brian Mink
Monona, WI
Robbie Webber wrote:
By the way, If you must have mandatory helmet laws for kids, then
require that the PARENTS and other adults biking with kids be required
to wear helmets. Drives me nuts when I see a family biking along, with
the kids all wearing helmets--under parental orders, I'm sure--but the
parents without. Or even more ridiculous is mom wearing one and dad
not. So the message is, "Big boy (or girls) don't have to wear helmets."
The best way to get people to wear helmets is for role models -- like
parents, bosses, teachers, celebrities, and community leaders -- to
wear them.
Robbie Webber
Transportation Policy Analyst
608-263-9984 (o)
608-225-0002 (c)
[email protected]
All opinions expressed are my own and do not necessarily reflect those
of my employer or any other group with which I am affiliated.
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