Personality as a predictor of driving performance: An exploratory study

ObjectiveTo examine the role of psychological type in older driver performance.MethodsA convenience sample of 50 older adults was prospectively enrolled in the study. Each completed a demographic profile, the Myers–Briggs Type Indicator® (MBTI®) Step III™ instrument, a self-reported Safe Driving Behaviors Measure (SDBM), clinical tests and a standardized on-road driving evaluation yielding a fail/pass determination and Sum of Maneuvers Score (SMS).ResultsParticipants (M age = 72.96, SD = 4.78) who had Extraversion and Judging preferences were better drivers than those with Introversion or Perceiving preferences. Those with Sensing vs. Intuition preferences rated themselves better on the SDBM (S = 317.62, N = 305.33; t(48) = 2.19, p = .03). Those with Introvert preferences failed the on-road course with sensitivity = .714, specificity = .767, area under the curve = .76, p = .03.ConclusionOur findings provide the basis for further research investigating personality and driving. Specifically, if the main findings are consistent in a representative sample of older drivers, personality testing may be added to a driving assessment battery. Future research must build on these findings to more clearly identify the risk associated with psychological type and examine how personality profiles can be used to keep older drivers on the road longer and more safely.

► This is one of the early studies to examine personality as a predictor of driving performance in older adults.
► Participants with Extraversion and Judging preferences were better drivers than those with Introversion or Perceiving preferences.
► Those with Sensing vs. Intuition preferences rated themselves better on a self-report Safe Driving Behaviors Measure.
► Those with Introvert preferences failed the on-road course with 71% sensitivity and 76% specificity, with area under the curve 76%, p = .03.
► Future research must identify the risk or caution inherent to psychological types and examine the use of personality profiles in older driver safety.