NCJ Number
117309
Journal
Journal of Drug Education Volume: 16 Issue: 4 Dated: (1986) Pages: 341-348
Date Published
1986
Length
8 pages
Annotation
This study examines the extent to which characteristics of intoxicated people influences the frequency with which others attempt to dissuade them from driving.
Abstract
Data on 148 convicted driving while intoxicate (DWI) offenders were analyzed. Within three weeks after completing DWI School, each subject was interviewed using a structured interview schedule. Results indicate that women, older people, people who are fearful or anxious, and people who are seriously impaired by alcohol are more likely than others to be the object of attempts to dissuade them from driving while intoxicated. One explanation of these patterns is the notion of perceived social threat. Intervention is more likely when the subject of the intervention is perceived as a member of a less threatening social category. Conversely, bystanders are less likely to intervene when the subject of the intervention is perceived as a member of a more threatening or dangerous social category. Another explanation is the notion of perceived or implied self-sufficiency. The categories of people who bystanders do not attempt to dissuade from driving while intoxicated are the categories of people who are likely to be viewed, either realistically or stereotypically, as more self-sufficient and, therefore, in less need of assistance. 1 table and 8 references. (Author abstract modified)