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Driving Behavior: Laws and Social Norms: Drinking and Driving

NCJ Number
115995
Journal
Alcohol, Drugs and Driving Volume: 4 Issue: 3-4 Dated: (July-December 1988) Pages: 265-281
Author(s)
M B Biecheler-Fretel
Date Published
1988
Length
17 pages
Annotation
Surveys of French drivers between 1978 and 1985 formed the basis of an analysis of the concepts of basic driving behavior and deviance in automobile driving.
Abstract
Basic driving behavior was considered to the usual behavior, based on the driver's own system of rules reflecting both laws and social or individual norms. The surveys provided information about the symbolic value attributed to different driving rules, including those relating to speed, the use of alcohol, territorial violations, and other factors. These findings were used to establish the basic driving behavior patterns in a representative population of drivers and to interpret the main dimensions of the behavioral variability. The results were also used to clarify the concept of deviance in driving and to conduct a further examination of the interaction between alcohol and driving. Findings indicated that the mechanisms responsible for basic driving behavior that involves drinking and driving stem from lifestyles rather than from personality factors. Figures, table, and 16 references. (Author abstract modified)

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