Application of Problem Behavior Theory to the Understanding of Risky Driving

• NCJ Number: 115989
• Journal: Alcohol, Drugs and Driving Volume: 4 Issue: 3-4 Dated: (July-December 1988) Pages: 173-191
• Author(s): R J Wilson; B A Jonah
• Date Published: 1988
• Length: 19 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Interviews with 935 licensed drivers in Ontario, Canada formed the basis of an examination of the usefulness of Jessor's Problem Behavior Theory (PBT) in predicting and understanding risky driving.

Abstract

Risky driving was conceptualized both as antecedent behaviors such as aggressive driving and non-use of seatbelts and consequences such as accidents and driver's license suspensions. The sample had an average age of 35 and was 91 percent male. Canonical correlations computed between each component of Jessor's model and the antecedent measures of risky driving indicated that risky driving could be predicted from the PBT model and was part of a behavior system. In addition, regression analysis indicated that the behavior system was more closely tied to driving risk than were personality or perceived environment. Results support Jessor's proposal that risky driving is part of a problem behavior syndrome and that his behavior syndrome is influenced by both personality and the perceived environment. Figure, tables, 23 references, and appended methodological information. (Author abstract modified)