Behavioral and physiological responses of autistic male individuals when subjected to frustrating driving events: A driving simulator study

Research on autism and driving expanded about a decade ago, initially focusing on the risks and challenges autistic drivers face compared to non-autistic drivers. Today, researchers recognize the importance of considering both the strengths and limitations of autistic drivers, leading to a more balanced perspective and improved insights for inclusive driver education. Driving often involves frustrating events, which can lead to aggressive driving behavior and impact road safety. Little attention has been given to the impact of frustrating driving events on autistic individuals, although their driving could be impacted by emotion regulation issues (i.e., aggression or anxiety). Alternatively, compared to non-autistic individuals, they can display safer driving behavior due to rule adherence. This study aims to compare the responses of autistic and non-autistic participants when subjected to a series of frustrating simulated driving events. Behavioral (i.e., driving parameters) and physiological measures are complemented by self-reports to allow insights into underlying mechanisms of driver responses. A total of 60 male participants, mostly pre-drivers, took part in this study, 23 autistic and 37 non-autistic individuals. Findings revealed that autistic participants’ driving behavior was impacted by the frustrating events, as indicated in an increased maximum deceleration. However, they also displayed safer driving behaviors, as indicated by a higher mean following distance. Taking all driving measures and known safety cut-off values into account, the impact on traffic safety was comparable between both groups. However, autistic participants experienced higher electrodermal activity (EDA) than their non-autistic counterparts during the simulated frustrating driving events. The results together suggest that while autistic participants can cope with frustrating driving situations, they likely experience higher levels of stress. The current study provides important insights for inclusive driver education programs, which could focus on the best ways to deal with frustrating driving events. However, future studies including more licensed drivers and more challenging circumstances are warranted.