The Relationship of Attitude, Personality and Perceived Source of Control with Different Types of Driving Behaviors

Driving accidents are one of the most serious causes of mortality and disability in Iran. Since the main cause of these accidents are human factors, the present study aimed at studying the role of driving behaviors and influencing factors among drivers in Kerman province. A total of 730 drivers participated in this cross-sectional study. Data gathering instruments were a questionnaire consisting of demographic variables and driving experience, Manchester Driving Behavior Questionnaire, personality characteristics assessment questionnaire (NEO PI-R) and perceived Locus of control questionnaire. Data were analyzed through SPSS16 software and using t-test, ANOVA and Pearson correlation test. About 36% of drivers sometimes use safety belts and 3% of them never use it. Almost all participants (96.4%) reported some non-intentional violations. There was a significant moderate reverse correlation between attitudes about driving laws and both aspects of driving behaviors. Some of personality characteristics had significant reverse relationship with intentional violations. Relationship between perceived internal locus of control and driving violation was negative. Identifying high-risk drivers, providing them with counseling and specific counseling and training by psychologists and police as well as primary evaluation of psychological characteristics of applicants at the time of getting or renewing driving license and other drivers at regular intervals can help to reduce risks of traffic accidents.