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Driving-related fear: a review
Joanne Taylor1, Frank Deane, John Podd
1School of Psychology, Massey University, Private Bag 11-222, Palmerston North, New Zealand. joanne.taylor.1@uni.massey.ac.nz
Clinical Psychology Review
|July 13, 2002
Summary
Driving-related fear (DRF) research traditionally focused on motor vehicle accidents (MVAs). New findings indicate non-MVA events also significantly contribute to DRF, highlighting the need for broader assessment and intervention strategies.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Behavioral Science
- Trauma Studies
Background:
- Research on driving-related fear (DRF) has historically emphasized motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) as the primary cause.
- Recent evidence suggests non-MVA related events can elicit comparable levels of driving fear.
- Diagnostic conceptualization and typologies of DRF remain challenging within the broader driving-fearful population.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on driving-related fear (DRF).
- To explore the role of non-MVA events in the development of DRF.
- To identify gaps in current DRF research, including diagnostic inconsistencies and the under-exploration of driving skill.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on driving-related fear.
- Analysis of research focusing on the impact of MVAs and non-MVA events on DRF.
- Examination of studies investigating DRF typologies and diagnostic challenges.
Main Results:
- Motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) are not the sole cause of driving-related fear (DRF).
- Fear of driving can arise from non-MVA experiences, with comparable intensity.
- Driving skill has been largely overlooked in DRF research but may be crucial for assessment and treatment.
Conclusions:
- DRF research needs to expand beyond MVA-centric models to include non-MVA triggers.
- Addressing definitional inconsistencies is vital for advancing DRF research.
- Future research should investigate the role of driving skill in the assessment and remediation of DRF.