Why do adolescent cyclists engage in distracted cycling? A qualitative exploration of adolescents' experiences and perceptions.

OBJECTIVE: Distraction is a known risk factor for bicycle accidents and cyclist fatalities. In-depth exploration of cyclists' experiences, perceptions, and sociocultural contexts can provide new insights into bicycle accident prevention among adolescent cyclists. The aim of this study was to explore adolescents' experiences and perceptions of distracted cycling (DC) and its influential factors. METHODS: This descriptive qualitative study was conducted in 2022-2023 using conventional content analysis. Data were collected using eighteen in-depth interviews with eighteen adolescent cyclists and three focus group discussions with thirteen adolescent cyclists. Participants were recruited from Isfahan, Iran, through purposive sampling. Data were analyzed via conventional content analysis method. RESULTS: Distracted cycling (DC) among adolescent cyclists was identified as a dynamic and context-bound phenomenon associated with a combination of personal, behavioral, and external factors. Personal characteristics such as sensation-seeking, perceived risk, and fatigue are associated with how adolescents respond to cycling situations. Behavioral factors such as cell phone use, talking with other road users, and eating during cycling may influence their attention and bicycle control. Moreover, external factors may capture adolescents' attention and shift their focus away from cycling tasks. CONCLUSION: DC among adolescents is a dynamic and context-bound phenomenon influenced by personal, behavioral, and external factors. The findings of this study can serve as a guide for future research on DC and for developing educational interventions to reduce DC among adolescents.