A Test of the Theory of Planned Behavior in an International Context using Structural Equation Modeling

The Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) has been widely used to predict behavioral intention of different kinds. However, there is a lack of studies that have measured the factorial structure of the TPB instrument. In addition, findings that apply to one context may not be appropriate in different settings. Thus, it is important to focus on measurement and instrument development issues to contribute to theory building. Based on a sample of 210 managers/owners of small and medium sized businesses in Chile, this research uses confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the underlying factor structure and assess reliability and validity of the TPB instrument. The results provides support for a revised TPB model which explains eighty-one percent of the variance in intention by using attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control variables. Thus, the evidence supports the use of an eleven-item instrument when applying the TPB in this international context.