Working Memory and Car Crashes

Chesney Olson

Mr. Reints

Psychology

10/8/19

Working Memory and Car Crashes

            We already know that adolescent drivers are the most likely to be involved in car crashes, but we usually assume it is just because of their lack of driving experience and skills. However, studies have recently shown that the causes of these crashes could be better linked to their underdeveloped or less developed working memory. The article states, “Working memory, which develops through adolescence into the twenties, is a frontal lobe process associated with complex, moment-to-moment tasks essential to driving.” There is an inverse relationship between the age and crash risk within the early years of driving. Studies conducted by researchers from the Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania (APPC) and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) were the first studies directly connecting working memory to car crashes. They carried out the experiment over seven years, comparing the changes in working memory and other traits in adolescents beginning at ages 11-13 up until they were 18-20 years old. Results showed that those with less-than-average growth of working memory were much more likely to have reported a crash than those with an above average growth of working memory. Based on these findings, researchers believe that with further testing of diverse youth, they will be able to use the knowledge gained in order to predict and prevent a large number of crashes. They believe that the adolescent driver’s clinician will be able to conduct a screening by evaluating the cognitive abilities of the said adolescent and decide whether or not it is safe for him or her to drive independently. If the clinician believes he or she has average or above average working memory, the adolescent could be provided a release stating he or she can be allowed an independent driver’s permit or license. If not, researchers would like to be able to provide a type of intervention technology or extra training to young drivers who need it.

For the full article, click here: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/09/190913111400.htm