A positive psychology framework for understanding teenage driving behaviors: Examining the role of life purpose and mindfulness

Objective: The overwhelming majority of teenage driving research in the US is framed around characteristics associated with risk, rather than factors that promote safety. In this study, we examine the role of purpose in life and mindfulness as two factors that may be associated with safer driving behaviors. Methods: Using survey responses from a nationally representative sample of teenagers (aged 16–19) we used structural equation modeling to construct three latent variables–sense of purpose, mindfulness, and risky driving—and evaluate the associations between these latent variables among teenage drivers. Risky driving was based on measures of self-reported distracted driving, drunk driving, driving under the influence of marijuana and other drugs, inconsistent seatbelt use, and riding with an impaired driver. Results: We found that sense of purpose and mindfulness were associated with fewer risky driving behaviors. We also identified mindfulness as a mediator between sense of purpose and risky driving. Conclusions: Purpose in life and mindfulness are associated with fewer risky driving behaviors among US teenagers. Driver education and training could include components related to purpose and mindfulness, in order to promote safer driving behaviors in this population.