Viewpoints on Driving of Individuals with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder

Background: Independence in driving may substantially enhance people’s opportunities in the areas of social, vocational and educational aspects, as it allows for participation in valued occupations. However, driving is a highly complex activity that requires effective executive functioning. Having a cognitive condition is likely to compromise a person’s driving ability. A previous study reported that individuals with ASD were less efficient in executive functioning skills and underperformed in unexpected circumstances. However, it remains unknown how people with ASD actually perceive driving as a primary mode of transportation and what difficulties they face in driving. Indeed, no research has explored the area of driving as a primary mode of transportation for people with ASD from the viewpoints of young adults who are learning to drive or who are current and experienced drivers. Furthermore, very little is known about this population’s independent community involvement.

Objectives:  Understanding the viewpoints of drivers with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is crucial in the development of transport policies and driver training responsive to their needs.  

Methods:  Fifty young adults with ASD and 57 typically-developed contrasts voluntarily participated in the study. Q-methodology was used to understand viewpoints on using cars as a main mode of transportation. Data were analysed using by-person varimax rotation factor analysis.

Results:  Although some ASD participants perceived themselves as confident and independent drivers, others preferred other modes of transportation, such as public transport and walking to travel. Anxiety was also found to be a barrier to driving. On the contrary, the contrast group revealed consistent viewpoints on their driving ability. They preferred driving as the main mode of transportation and believe that they are competent in driving independently and safely.

Conclusions:  The results should be viewed from the insight that there was significant difference in the driving statuses between both groups. These results are important in the planning of transport policies for individuals with ASD.