Connecting the dots: An exploration of parent and teen perspectives on texting while driving

Background/Purpose:  Texting while driving (TWD) is a major distraction for drivers that has emerged as a cause in nearly 25% of all car crashes. Novice and young riders are likely to be more at risk than experienced drivers. Numerous efforts from diverse stakeholders to educate young drivers of the dangers of TWD have not deterred them from avoiding this practice. This research explores perspectives of teens and parents on TWD and their views on potential strategies to curb this unsafe driving behavior among teens.

 Methods: Four focus groups of high school students and four focus groups of parents from Middle Tennessee were conducted by a professional moderator. The discussions were transcribed and common themes were identified.

 Results/Outcomes: Parents and teens lacked comprehensive understanding of laws pertaining to teen driving. However, there is a broad recognition that TWD was not allowed under the law. This did not deter them from this practice. They were also not averse to texting at stop lights. Interestingly, teens disapproved of parents’ use of cellphones while driving. Parents were aware of prevalence of TWD among teens and adults. However, they looked at TWD as a teen problem. Parents and teens identified law, technology, parental enforcement, and school as pivotal areas for behavioral change.  

Conclusions: Teens and parents admitted to TWD. Teens, unlike parents, acknowledged it as a problem. There was consensus on the need for stronger laws, relevant technology, and stricter parental enforcement.