The change of driving self-efficacy during and after driving training: relations to driving behaviour

Abstract

Researchers agree that driving self-efficacy might be one of the most important factors that contribute to high crash rates among novice drivers. Thus this paper aims to evaluate the change of driving self-efficacy during driving training and independent driving and to investigate its relation to later driving behaviour in the group of novice drivers. 173 learner drivers (39.3 percent males; age M = 20.75, SD = 5.9111; all licensed to drive vehicle) participated in the longitudinal study. Driving self-efficacy was measured three times using Adelaide Driving Self-Efficacy Scale: the first assessment was made on the first or second day of driving training; the second assessment took place after training course and just before taking driving exam; and the third assessment was made by telephone in one year after completing driving training. Additionally, questions about driving behaviour and outcomes were asked during the third assessment. Study results revealed that driving self-efficacy of novice drivers increased during driving training and independent driving, even regardless their initial level of self-confidence in own driving. Novice drivers with different profiles of driving self-efficacy did not differ according negative outcomes of driving. Still, females with low driving self-efficacy reported rarer independent driving and rarer passing the driving exam from the first time.