Write your message
Volume 24, Issue 153 (11-2025)                   Journal of Psychological Science 2025, 24(153): 171-193 | Back to browse issues page


XML Persian Abstract Print


Download citation:
BibTeX | RIS | EndNote | Medlars | ProCite | Reference Manager | RefWorks
Send citation to:

mohammadi A, aghabayk K, zabihzadeh A. (2025). Identifying risky driving behaviors in Iran based on drivers' views. Journal of Psychological Science. 24(153), 171-193. doi:10.61186/jps.24.153.171
URL: http://psychologicalscience.ir/article-1-2792-en.html
Associate Professor, School of Civil Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran. , kayvan.aghabayk@ut.ac.ir
Abstract:   (809 Views)
Background: Road crashes are one of the most serious and ongoing challenges worldwide, leading to extensive human and financial losses. Although several factors contribute to road crashes, human factors particularly risky driving behaviors and their psychological aspects are recognized as key components in determining road safety levels. In Iran, there is a notable research gap due to the lack of comprehensive and targeted studies specifically addressing risky driving behaviors and the factors influencing them.
Aims: This study aimed to identify and categorize the risky driving behaviors of Iranian drivers based on their self-reported views.
Methods: The statistical population of this study comprises all the drivers in the country, selected through random sampling. To achieve this, risky driving behaviors were first identified based on previous studies and common behaviors among Iranian drivers. Subsequently, a questionnaire covering personal information, risky driving behaviors, and drivers' crash records was designed and distributed online across Iran. After initial evaluations, the responses from 2,387 drivers were subjected to final analysis using a quantitative method.
Results: The results of the exploratory factor analysis performed on the data showed that risky driving behaviors can be divided into five main categories: Negligent and noncompliant driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, speeding, driving in extreme conditions. A positive and significant correlation was also observed between the dimensions of risky driving behaviors (P< 0.05), indicating the tool's appropriate concurrent validity. The reliability of the tool was calculated using Cronbach's alpha, with values for all five factors exceeding 0.7, demonstrating good reliability.
Conclusion: This study aims to identify and analyze risky driving behaviors among Iranian drivers to provide a scientific basis for designing psychological interventions and formulating preventive policies. The findings of this research can contribute to improving road safety and reducing crashes in the country.


Full-Text [PDF 1272 kb]   (306 Downloads)    
Type of Study: Research | Subject: Special
Received: 2025/01/8 | Accepted: 2025/03/12 | Published: 2025/11/24

References
1. اسفیدانی محمدرحیم، محسنین شهریار (1393). معادلات ساختاری مبتنی بر رویکرد حداقل مربعات جزئی به‌کمک نرم‌افزار اسمارت پی ال اس: آموزشی و کاربردی. تهران: موسسه کتاب مهربان نشر.
2. Ajzen, I. (1991). The Theory of planned behavior. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes,50, 179-211. https://doi.org/10.1016/0749-5978(91)90020-T
3. Al Reesi, H., Al Maniri, A., Plankermann, K., Al Hinai, M., Al Adawi, S., Davey, J., & Freeman, J. (2013). Risky driving behavior among university students and staff in the Sultanate of Oman. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 58, 1-9. https://doi.org/ 10.1016/j.aap.2013.04.021
4. Al Reesi, H., Freeman, J., Davey, J., Al Adawi, S., & Al Maniri, A. (2018). Measuring risky driving behaviours among young drivers: development of a scale for the Oman setting. Transportation research part F: traffic psychology and behaviour, 55, 78-89. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trf.2018.02.030
5. Bates, L. J., Davey, J., Watson, B., King, M. J., & Armstrong, K. (2014). Factors contributing to crashes among young drivers. Sultan Qaboos university medical journal, 14(3), e297. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/264539668_Factors_Contributing_to_Crashes_among_Young_Drivers
6. Bener, A., Özkan, T., & Lajunen, T. (2008). The driver behaviour questionnaire in Arab gulf countries: Qatar and United Arab Emirates. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 40(4), 1411-1417. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2008.03.003
7. Bobermin, M., Ferreira, S., Campos, C. J., Leitão, J. M., & Garcia, D. S. P. (2023). The influence of middle-aged male driver profile on driving performance and the effects of three perceptual countermeasures: a simulator study. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 191, 107201. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2023.107201
8. Braitman, K. A., & Braitman, A. L. (2017). Patterns of distracted driving behaviors among young adult drivers: Exploring relationships with personality variables. Transportation research part F: traffic psychology and behaviour, 46, 169-176. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trf.2017.01.015
9. Cai, X., Lu, J. J., Xing, Y., Jiang, C., & Lu, W. (2013). Analyzing driving risks of roadway traffic under adverse weather conditions: In case of rain day. Procedia-social and behavioral sciences, 96, 2563-2571. https://doi: 10.1016/j.sbspro.2013.08.287
10. Caird, J. K., Johnston, K. A., Willness, C. R., Asbridge, M., & Steel, P. (2014). A meta-analysis of the effects of texting on driving. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 71, 311-318. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2014.06.005
11. Cassarino, M., & Murphy, G. (2018). Reducing young drivers’ crash risk: Are we there yet? An ecological systems-based review of the last decade of research. Transportation research part F: traffic psychology and behaviour, 56, 54-73. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trf.2018.04.003
12. Castro, C., Ventsislavova, P., Garcia-Fernandez, P., & Crundall, D. (2021). Risky decision-making and hazard prediction are negatively related and could be assessed independently using driving footage. Psychology research and behavior management, 857-876. http://dx.doi.org/10.2147/PRBM.S305979
13. Conner, M., Smith, N., & McMillan, B. (2003). Examining normative pressure in the theory of planned behaviour: Impact of gender and passengers on intentions to break the speed limit. Current Psychology, 22, 252-263. http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s12144-003-1020-8
14. Dahlen, E. R., Martin, R. C., Ragan, K., & Kuhlman, M. M. (2005). Driving anger, sensation seeking, impulsiveness, and boredom proneness in the prediction of unsafe driving. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 37(2), 341-348. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2004.10.006
15. de Winter, J. C., & Dodou, D. (2010). The Driver Behaviour Questionnaire as a predictor of accidents: A meta-analysis. Journal of safety research, 41(6), 463-470. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jsr.2010.10.007
16. Deffenbacher, J. L., Oetting, E. R., & Lynch, R. S. (1994). Development of a driving anger scale. Psychological reports, 74(1), 83-91. https://doi.org/10.2466/pr0.1994.74.1.83
17. Esfidani, M. R., & Mohsenin, S. (2014). Structural equation modeling based on partial least squares approach using SmartPLS software: Educational and applied. Tehran: Mehregan Nashr Publishing Institute. (In persian)
18. Field, A. (2009). Discovering Statistics Using SPSS.
19. Fisher, D. L., Pollatsek, A., & Pradhan, A. (2006). Can novice drivers be trained to scan for information that will reduce their likelihood of a crash? Injury prevention, 12(suppl 1), i25-i29. https://doi.org/10.1136/ip.2006.012021
20. Freydier, C., Berthelon, C., & Bastien-Toniazzo, M. (2016). Does early training improve driving skills of young novice French drivers? Accident Analysis & Prevention, 96, 228-236. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2016.07.026
21. George, A. M., Brown, P. M., Scholz, B., Scott-Parker, B., & Rickwood, D. (2018). “I need to skip a song because it sucks”: Exploring mobile phone use while driving among young adults. Transportation research part F: traffic psychology and behaviour, 58, 382-391. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.trf.2018.06.014
22. Glendon, A. I., & Stanton, N. A. (2000). Perspectives on safety culture. Safety science, 34(1-3), 193-214. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0925-7535(00)00013-8
23. GOV.UK. (2021). Reported Road Collisions, Vehicles and Casualties Tables for Great Britain. Department for Transpor. thttps://www.data.gov.uk/dataset/cb7ae6f0-4be6-4935-9277-47e5ce24a11f/road-safety-data
24. Gras, M. E., Sullman, M. J., Cunill, M., Planes, M., Aymerich, M., & Font-Mayolas, S. (2006). Spanish drivers and their aberrant driving behaviours. Transportation research part F: traffic psychology and behaviour, 9(2), 129-137. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.trf.2005.09.004
25. Hair, J. F., Anderson, R. E., Tatham, R. L., & Black, W. C. (2010). Multivariate Data Analysis.
26. Hamilton, B. (2016). Ten-year averages from 2005 to 2014. Retrieved from Road Weather Management Program-NHTSA http://www. ops. fhwa. dot. gov/weather/q1_roadimpact. htm.
27. Houston, J. M., & Harris, P. (2003). The Aggressive Driving Behavior Scale: Developing a self-report measure of unsafe driving practices. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/285810654_The_Aggressive_Driving_Behavior_Scale_Developing_a_self report_measure_of_unsafe_driving_practices
28. Huemer, A. K., & Vollrath, M. (2011). Driver secondary tasks in Germany: Using interviews to estimate prevalence. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 43(5), 1703-1712. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2011.03.029
29. ISRC. (2020). Analytical report on the statistics of road accidents and casualties. Iran Statistical Research Center. https://amar.org.ir/
30. Iversen, H. (2004). Risk-taking attitudes and risky driving behaviour. Transportation research part F: traffic psychology and behaviour, 7(3), 135-150. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trf.2003.11.003
31. Iversen, H., & Rundmo, T. (2004). Attitudes towards traffic safety, driving behaviour and accident involvement among the Norwegian public. Ergonomics, 47(5), 555-572. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1080/00140130410001658709
32. Jafarpour, S., & Rahimi-Movaghar, V. (2014). Determinants of risky driving behavior: a narrative review. Medical journal of the Islamic Republic of Iran, 28, 142. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/272516743_Determinants_of_risky_driving_behavior_a_narrative_review
33. kafi malak, s., & ershadi manesh, s. (2024). Structural relationships of the executive functions with high-risk behaviors with mediating role of cognitive emotional regulation strategies. Journal of Psychological Science, 23(136), 1-19. https://doi.org/10.52547/JPS.23.136.747
34. Karimi, S., Aghabayk, K., & Moridpour, S. (2022). Impact of driving style, behaviour and anger on crash involvement among Iranian intercity bus drivers. IATSS Research, 46(4), 457-466. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.iatssr.2022.07.003
35. Klauer, C., Dingus, T. A., Neale, V. L., Sudweeks, J. D., & Ramsey, D. J. (2006). The impact of driver inattention on near-crash/crash risk: An analysis using the 100-car naturalistic driving study data. https://doi.org/10.21949/1530253
36. Lajunen, T., Parker, D., & Summala, H. (2004). The Manchester driver behaviour questionnaire: a cross-cultural study. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 36(2), 231-238. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0001-4575(02)00152-5
37. Lajunen, T., & Summala, H. (1997). Effects of driving experience, personality, driver's skill and safety orientation on speed regulation and accidents. Traffic and transport psychology. Theory and application. https://researchportal.helsinki.fi/sv/publications/effects-of-driving-experience-personality-and-drivers-skill-and-s
38. Lord, D., & Washington, S. (2018). Safe mobility: Challenges, methodology and solutions: Emerald Publishing Limited. https://www.amazon.com/Safe-Mobility-Challenges-Methodology-Sustainability/dp/1786352249
39. Lucidi, F., Girelli, L., Chirico, A., Alivernini, F., Cozzolino, M., Violani, C., & Mallia, L. (2019). Personality traits and attitudes toward traffic safety predict risky behavior across young, adult, and older drivers. Frontiers in psychology, 10, 536. http://dx.doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2019.00536
40. Luke, R. (2023). Current and future trends in driver behaviour and traffic safety scholarship: an African research agenda. International journal of environmental research and public health, 20(5), 4290. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph20054290
41. McKenna, F. P., & Horswill, M. S. (2006). Risk taking from the participant's perspective: The case of driving and accident risk. Health Psychology, 25(2), 163. https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/0278-6133.25.2.163
42. Mohammadi, A., Aghabayk, K., & Zabihzadeh, A. (2024). Exploring the Factors Influencing the Safety of Young Novice Drivers: A Qualitative Approach Based on Grounded Theory. Sustainability, 16(22), 9711. https://doi.org/10.3390/su16229711
43. NHTSA. (2022). Critical Reasons for Crashes Investigated in the National Motor Vehicle Crash Causation Survey. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/Publication/812506
44. Oviedo-Trespalacios, O., Haque, M. M., King, M., & Washington, S. (2016). Understanding the impacts of mobile phone distraction on driving performance: A systematic review. Transportation research part C: emerging technologies, 72, 360-380. http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.trc.2016.10.006
45. Padilla, J.-L., Doncel, P., Gugliotta, A., & Castro, C. (2018). Which drivers are at risk? Factors that determine the profile of the reoffender driver. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 119, 237-247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2018.07.021
46. Parker, D., Stradling, S. G., & Manstead, A. S. (1996). Modifying beliefs and attitudes to exceeding the speed limit: an intervention study based on the theory of planned behavior 1. Journal of Applied Social Psychology, 26(1), 1-19. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1559-1816.1996.tb01835.x
47. Perkins, H. W., Linkenbach, J. W., Lewis, M. A., & Neighbors, C. (2010). Effectiveness of social norms media marketing in reducing drinking and driving: A statewide campaign. Addictive behaviors, 35(10), 866-874. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.addbeh.2010.05.004
48. Pöysti, L., Rajalin, S., & Summala, H. (2005). Factors influencing the use of cellular (mobile) phone during driving and hazards while using it. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 37(1), 47-51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2004.06.003
49. Puphal, T., Hirano, R., Probst, M., Wenzel, R., & Kimata, A. (2023). Considering Human Factors in Risk Maps for Robust and Foresighted Driver Warning. Paper presented at the 2023 32nd IEEE International Conference on Robot and Human Interactive Communication (RO-MAN). https://doi.org/10.48550/arXiv.2306.03849
50. Reason, J., Manstead, A., Stradling, S., Baxter, J., & Campbell, K. (1990). Errors and violations on the roads: a real distinction? Ergonomics, 33(11-11), 1315-1332. https://doi.org/10.1080/00140139008925335
51. Riquelme, H. E., Al-Sammak, F. S., & Rios, R. E. (2010). Social influences among young drivers on talking on the mobile phone while driving. Traffic Injury Prevention, 11(2), 127-132. https://doi.org/10.1080/15389580903536712
52. RSEV. (2022). What Causes a Road Crash. Road Safety Education Victoria. https://www.roadsafetyeducation.vic.gov.au/
53. RTMC. (2021). Road traffic accidents in South Africa: challenges and solutions. Road Traffic Management Corporation. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/376438416_Road_traffic_accidents_in_South_Africa_challenges_and_solutions
54. Scott-Parker, B., Hyde, M. K., Watson, B., & King, M. J. (2013). Speeding by young novice drivers: What can personal characteristics and psychosocial theory add to our understanding? Accident Analysis & Prevention, 50, 242-250. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2012.04.010
55. Scott-Parker, B., & Oviedo-Trespalacios, O. (2017). Young driver risky behaviour and predictors of crash risk in Australia, New Zealand and Colombia: Same but different? Accident Analysis & Prevention, 99, 30-38. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2016.11.001
56. Scott-Parker, B., & Proffitt, C. (2015). Validation of the Behaviour of Young Novice Drivers Scale (BYNDS) in a New Zealand young driver population. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 77, 62-71. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.aap.2015.01.019
57. Scott-Parker, B., Watson, B., & King, M. (2010). The risky behaviour of young drivers: Developing a measurement tool. Paper presented at the Proceedings of the 20th Canadian multidisciplinary road safety conference. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/257927516_The_risky_behaviour_of_young_drivers_Developing_a_measurement_tool
58. Shokoohi-Yekta, M., Ghasemzadeh, S., & Matbou Riahi, M. (2021). Effects of psycho-social skills training on bus drivers’ aggression and cognitive flexibility. Journal of Psychological Science, 20(101), 719-727. http://psychologicalscience.ir/article-1-847-en.html
59. Shokoohi-Yekta, M., Motamed Yeganeh, N., & Shakeri, A. (2021). The effectiveness of psychosocial skills training package on happiness and general self-efficacy of tehran bus company’s drivers. Journal of Psychological Science, 20(98), 161-170. http://psychologicalscience.ir/article-1-845-en.html
60. Sümer, N. (2003). Personality and behavioral predictors of traffic accidents: testing a contextual mediated model. Accident Analysis & Prevention, 35(6), 949-964. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0001-4575(02)00103-3
61. Tavakoli, A., Lai, N., Balali, V., & Heydarian, A. (2023). How are drivers’ stress levels and emotions associated with the driving context? A naturalistic study. Journal of Transport & Health, 31, 101649. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jth.2023.101649
62. Tsala, S. A. Z., Ayissi, M. Z., Azeh, G., Noah, P. A., Ebanda, F. B., & Ohandja, L. M. A. (2021). An in-depth analysis of the causes of road accidents in developing countries: case study of Douala-Dschang Highway in Cameroon. Journal of transportation technologies, 11(3), 455-470. http://dx.doi.org/10.4236/jtts.2021.113030
63. WHO. (2018). Global Status Report on Road Safety. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/
64. WHO. (2021). Road traffic injuries. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/
65. WHO. (2022). Road traffic injuries. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/
66. WHO. (2023). Global Status Report on Road Safety. World Health Organization. https://www.who.int/
67. Zhou, M., Jin, H., & Wang, W. (2016). A review of vehicle fuel consumption models to evaluate eco-driving and eco-routing. Transportation Research Part D: Transport and Environment, 49, 203-218. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.trd.2016.09.008

Add your comments about this article : Your username or Email:
CAPTCHA

Send email to the article author


Rights and permissions
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0) License.

© 2026 CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 | Journal of Psychological Science

Designed & Developed by : Yektaweb

Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)