The role of emotional climate and family function in high risk driving behaviors of a group of Tehran drivers

Technological advances have created tools and technologies for mankind. These advanced tools, such as cars, act as double-edged swords in the lives of people in society. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of emotional climate and family performance in high risk driving behaviors. The research method was descriptive and correlational. From the high-risk driver population of Tehran, 150 drivers were selected by convenience sampling. The measuring instruments were family emotional climate questionnaire, family functioning questionnaire and Manchester driver behavior questionnaire (DBQ). The data were analyzed by correlation and regression statistical methods. A significant negative relationship was found between the predictor variables and the criterion variable. With the increase in emotional climate and family functioning, risky driving behaviors decreased and with decreasing emotional climate and family performance, risky behaviors increased. By giving responsibility and identifying the roles and expectations of its members to perform well and by creating a calm and intimate atmosphere, the family can mature and prevent emotional and sensitive behaviors – such as high risk behaviors – in driving.