Driving anger and driving behavior in adults with attention-deficit /hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Abstract

This study was designed to assess whether anger in the context of driving is associated with the negative driving outcomes experienced by individuals with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ADHD adults (n = 56) completed measures on driving anger, driving anger expression, angry thoughts behind the wheel, and aggressive, risky and crash-related behavior. Results were compared to two non-ADHD control groups; one from the same community as the ADHD sample (n = 106), but who did not complete all instruments, and the other from college students (n = 432) who completed all instruments. ADHD participants reported more driving anger and aggressive expression through the use of their vehicle and less adaptive/constructive anger expression than their non-ADHD peers. Adult ADHD drivers rated themselves as more angry, risky and unsafe drivers and reported experiencing more losses of concentration and vehicular control than college students. Results are discussed in regard to understanding ADHD and implications for drivers with ADHD.