Does the meaning of driving independently differ with age in rural America?

Format Type

Plenary

Format Type

Paper

Start Date

12-1-2021 2:30 PM

End Date

12-1-2021 2:50 PM

Abstract

Our love affair with cars is well established. Unfortunately, the continued growth of cars is taxing the environment, the economy and our health. Efforts to change our driving habits requires a better understanding of why we love to drive independently. The aim of this study is to increase understanding of the meaning of driving independently, and to determine if this meaning differs between people of different ages. This preliminary qualitative study used an empirical phenomenological approach, with semi-structured, guided discussions conducted with four age-determined focus groups. A thematic analysis of transcribed audio files identified three primary themes common to all focus groups: Driving Supports Personal Freedom and Independence, Driving Enables Engagement in Valued Activities, and Driving Maintains Personal Identity. Analysis also revealed distinct differences in the nuances within primary themes and secondary themes which supported the development of the meaning of driving independently for each separate age group.

Keywords

driving, independence, identity, qualitative research

ORCID ID

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6824-1156

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Jan 12th, 2:30 PM Jan 12th, 2:50 PM

Does the meaning of driving independently differ with age in rural America?

Our love affair with cars is well established. Unfortunately, the continued growth of cars is taxing the environment, the economy and our health. Efforts to change our driving habits requires a better understanding of why we love to drive independently. The aim of this study is to increase understanding of the meaning of driving independently, and to determine if this meaning differs between people of different ages. This preliminary qualitative study used an empirical phenomenological approach, with semi-structured, guided discussions conducted with four age-determined focus groups. A thematic analysis of transcribed audio files identified three primary themes common to all focus groups: Driving Supports Personal Freedom and Independence, Driving Enables Engagement in Valued Activities, and Driving Maintains Personal Identity. Analysis also revealed distinct differences in the nuances within primary themes and secondary themes which supported the development of the meaning of driving independently for each separate age group.