How are meaning in life and family aspects associated with teen driving behaviors?

• Two studies examined contributions of meaning in life and family aspects to young drivers’ self-reported driving behaviors.
• Higher meaning in life is associated with safer driving.
• Better family communication and a positive family climate in regard to safety are associated with safer driving.
• The study highlights the need to include concepts combining positive personal regard in interventions among young drivers.

This series of two studies examined the unique and combined contributions of meaning in life and aspects of the family to the self-reported driving behaviors of young drivers. In Study 1 (n = 155), teen drivers completed the Sense of Coherence scale and two scales assessing family communication and satisfaction. The associations between these concepts and the self-reported driving styles of the young drivers were examined. In Study 2 (n = 120), a second sample of teen drivers completed the Purpose in Life test and the Family Climate for Road Safety Scale (FSRSS; assessing Modeling, Feedback, Communication, Monitoring, Noncommitment, Messages, and Limits). Associations were examined with the self-reported driving styles and reckless driving habits of the young drivers. Taken together, the findings of both studies indicate that higher meaning in life, better family communication, and a positive family climate in regard to safety are related to a higher endorsement of safe driving. The discussion stresses the need to include concepts that combine positive personal regard for life with support from the family in interventions aimed at enhancing safe driving among young drivers.