The influence of others on the behaviour of the individual is considered in relation to traffic. The presence of others may induce behaviours based on rivalry, and individual performance may be better in some group situations and not in others. It is suggested that the presence of others facilitates simple well-learned tasks but impairs the performance of complex tasks. Experiments that show that drivers rely on other drivers to confirm their analysis of road danger/choice of speed are described. This may lead to a driver overriding his correct behaviour to conform to that of others. It is suggested that the rules of the road are therefore not taken at face value but negotiated by groups of drivers. The psychology of risk taking and aggression is discussed. Ways of changing attitudes and behaviour are considered in relation to drivers' optimism and belief that their skills are better than average.
Abstract