Mechanisms behind distracted driving behavior: The role of age and executive function in the engagement of distracted driving

Abstract

Performing secondary tasks, such as texting while driving, is associated with an increased risk of motor vehicle collisions (MVCs). While cognitive processes, such as executive function, are involved in driving, little is known about the relationship between executive control and willingness to engage in distracted driving. This study investigated the relationship between age, behavioral manifestations of executive function, and self-reported distracted driving behaviors. Executive difficulty (assessed with the BRIEF-A) as well as demographics (age and gender) was considered as possible predictors of engagement in distracted driving behaviors. Fifty-nine young, middle, and older adults self-reported executive difficulty and weekly engagement in distracted driving behaviors. Results revealed that while partially accounted for by age, global executive difficulty was uniquely related to engagement in distracted driving behaviors. Older age was associated with fewer weekly self-reported distracted driving behaviors while higher self-reported executive difficulty was associated with more frequent weekly engagement in distracted behavior. No significant differences were found between young and middle-aged adults on distracted driving behaviors. Findings conclude that distracted driving is a ubiquitous phenomenon evident in drivers of all ages. Possible mechanisms underlying distracted driving behavior could potentially be related to deficits in executive function.

Texting while driving, executive function, and impulsivity in college students

“…The TWD group showed higher levels of impulsivity than the Non-TWD group, although the difference was statistically significant only for the BIS. These results are consistent with previous research (Pope et al, 2017) and support a general conclusion that drivers with lower levels of executive function and higher levels of impulsivity are more likely to text while driving.…”

“…Despite its potential significance, a relation between executive function and texting while driving has received little empirical attention. One notable exception is Pope et al (2017), in which lower levels of executive function were related to a higher frequency of distracted driving in young, middle age and older drivers. It is important to note, however, that Pope et al (2017) averaged data from multiple behaviors (e.g., drinking, eating, talking, using a GPS, and texting) and employed a general index of distracted driving as a dependent variable.…”

“…One notable exception is Pope et al (2017), in which lower levels of executive function were related to a higher frequency of distracted driving in young, middle age and older drivers. It is important to note, however, that Pope et al (2017) averaged data from multiple behaviors (e.g., drinking, eating, talking, using a GPS, and texting) and employed a general index of distracted driving as a dependent variable. Although all of these behaviors are distracting, the cognitive mechanism underlying these behaviors may differ.…”

The Impact of Using Modern Information and Communication Equipment and Services on Driving Safety

“…Such studies have also revealed that distracted driving is a phenomenon seen across age groups. Furthermore, the findings have revealed that middle-aged adults engaged in distracted driving behaviors just as frequently as young adults [61]. Preventive action is needed, but it would be necessary to develop a multi-factor model.…”

An analysis of the crash risk and likelihood of engaging in a distraction while driving using naturalistic, time-series data

“…To date, the relationship between executive control, age, and distracted driving has been under-researched. To address this, research focused on these parameters by collecting detailed information on weekly engagement in distracted driving behaviors from 59 participants (Pope et al, 2016). The operators ranged from young, middle, and older adults who self-reported executive difficulty as well as demographic information.…”