ABSTRACT
In our car-centred society, driver stress is a significant influence on well-being that may also increase motor vehicle accident risk (eg Hennessy, Wiesenthal and Kohn, 2000; Koslowsky, 1997). This chapter reviews a ‘transactional model’ of driver stress that links stress reactions to the dynamic interplay between the driver and the traffic environment. Firstly, we outline the various state and trait factors through which stress, and vulnerability to stress, is expressed. Next, we discuss the role of cognitive stress processes in eliciting states of stress and potentially hazardous driving behaviours. Finally, we explore implications of the transactional model for training drivers to maintain safety in demanding, potentially stressful driving conditions.
