The aim of the literature study is to provide a summary and analysis of attitudes and beliefs to cycle helmet wearing among children/adolescents and adults in Sweden and other countries. The literature surveyed is limited to studies reporting results in Swedish, Norwegian, Danish or English. The results of the literature study show that there are certain differences in cyclists' reasons for not using helmets, partly between children/adolescents and adults, and partly between Nordic and non-Nordic cyclists. However, most studies indicate greater similarities than differences. Often, several of the following arguments are stated: Arguments for helmet usage: (i) Increased safety (the most common reason for using a helmet); (ii) A role model for other cyclists (applies mainly to adult cyclists); (iii) Obligation (imposed by parents or law. An argument used by certain children/adolescents); and (iv) "Positive group pressure" (using a helmet because others do so. An argument used by certain children/ adolescents). Arguments against helmet usage: (i) Comfort problems (too hot, too cold, uncomfortable, heavy, etc.); (ii) Problems with appearance (ugly, silly, weak, ruins one's hairstyle, etc.); (iii) Practical problems (inconvenient to carry around or keeping, etc.);(iv) Social factors (feels strange, no-one else use a helmet, don't want to be teased, etc.); (v) Risk factors (no sense of risk, careful cyclist, experienced cyclist, acceptable risk, etc.); and (vi) Other factors (disturbs sense of freedom when cycling, unfamiliar, forgetful, expensive, lack of awareness). One conclusion from the literature study is that we know fairly well what reasons given for and against helmet usage but there is a lack of studies with a more theoretical analysis of the relationship between different arguments, e.g. whether certain arguments are more important than others. If we can learn more about this aspect, it should be possible to make helmet promotion more effective. (A)
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