Predictors of sunbathing and sunscreen use in college undergraduates

Sunbathing and sunscreen use, as well as related intentions, attitudes, beliefs, and knowledge, were assessed in 90 Southern Appalachian undergraduates. A large majority (75%) reported sunbathing, with more than half reporting sun lamp use. A slight majority (56.7%) reported some use of sunscreen. Subjects reporting an intention to tan spent more time sunbathing, both outside and under a sun lamp. Individuals reporting a sun protection intention had lighter tans and spent less time sunbathing. Sunbathing was predicted by perceptions of sunbathing as relaxing, while suit lamp use was predicted by more positive views of suntans. Sunscreen use war predicted by more positive sun protection attitudes and less negative sunscreen attitudes.