Temperament and perceived stress in road traffic
Waszkowska, M.łg.
Medycyna Pracy 60(2): 137-144
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0465-5893 PMID: 19606746 Document Number: 633340
The aim of the study was to evaluate the relationship between the temperamental traits of drivers and the level of stress experienced in driving situations (the research was based on Strelau's Regulative Theory of Temperament). The study was performed on 214 professional drivers aged 21-65 years. The data were obtained using the following instruments: Formal Characteristics of Behaviour -- The Temperament Inventory, Perceived Stress Scale and Road Traffic Events questionnaires. The findings revealed that the drivers who are more likely to experience stress under conditions of road traffic are those who a) effectively regulate stimulation: they tend to reduce arousal and avoid strong stimulation and b) ineffectively regulate stimulation: they try to reduce arousal but get involved in highly stimulating situations. The relationship between one's temperament and the perceived stress from road traffic found in the present study indicates the necessity to take account of this factor in preventing the drivers' stress.