Factors affecting farmers’ intention to use pesticides in Quang Nam

Abstract

Pesticide use has become common to improve crops’ productivity; nonetheless,
it has unexpected influence on farmers and consumers’ health. By the structural equation
modeling, the study examines farmers’ intention to use pesticides based on psychosocial
theories. Research data were collected from 362 surveyed farmers in Quang Nam from April to
December 2020. Findings indicate that communication, perceived benefits, subjective norms,
and behavioral control motivate farmers’ intention of pesticide use. Meanwhile, perceived
risk on health and moral norms hampers their intention to use pesticides. In addition, local
pesticide stores have a significant effect on their intention. The article proposes implications
for related agencies and farmers in Quang Nam to minimize pesticide use towards a green
agriculture.