How might young driver behaviour be improved? By therapy for all 17 year olds?
Date
2008
Authors
Hutchinson, Paul
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Conference paper
Citation
National Conference of the 31st Australian Association for Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy, 17-21 September, 2008
Statement of Responsibility
T. P. Hutchinson
Conference Name
Australian Association for Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (31st : 2008 : Adelaide, Australia)
Abstract
This paper discusses some aspects of the psychology of young drivers, motivated by the following propositions. (1) If a substantial effect at the individual level is desired, anything short of an intrusive intervention will be insufficient. (2) If a large total effect on crash numbers is wanted, an intervention that applies to a large number of people is necessary. (3) Some form of therapeutic treatment might improve the driving behaviour of “normal” teenagers: what is different from the situation a generation or so ago is the list of successes that techniques under the label of cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) have had. Method: This is a selective review of psychological and safety literature relevant to the following issue. Suppose all 17 year olds were treated for the syndrome that stereotypically accompanies being 17 years old: low impulse control, high risk taking, impatience, sensation seeking, failure to recognise one’s own limitations, and so on. For example, this treatment could be part of getting a driving licence. Would there be a reduction in deaths and injuries on the road, to a cost-effective extent? Conclusions: There is some plausibility to possible success of psychological therapy. A bonus is the possibility of an intrusive intervention having more general effects, such as improving life management skills to reduce driving or avoid the more risky driving situations.