Research team contacts

Principal Researcher:

Dr David Rodwell, School of Psychology & Counselling, QUT

Associate Researcher:

Dr Sina Rejali, School of Psychology & Counselling, QUT

Research Student:

William Salmond, School of Psychology & Counselling, QUT

Research Centre / Group:

MAIC-QUT Road Safety Research Collaboration

What is the purpose of this research?

The purpose of this research project is to understand how empathy and emotional regulation predict prosocial driving intention. Prosocial driving’ is defined as safe, intentional, cooperative driving behaviour that benefits both the driver and other road users.

Are you looking for people like me?

You are invited to participate in this research project if you:

  • are aged 18 or older
  • reside in Australia
  • hold a valid Australian (Full/Open or Provisional/Probationary) driver’s license or international equivalent
  • drive at least once per week.

What will you ask me to do?

Participation will involve completing an anonymous online questionnaire with mostly questions that ask you to make a rating on a scale (e.g. (1) strongly disagree – (5) strongly agree). The questionnaire will take about 20 minutes.

Are there any risks for me in taking part?

There is some minimal risk associated with your participation in this research project. Questions may bring discomfort by prompting you to recall negative driving experiences or by answering questions about your empathy and emotional regulation

Are there any benefits for me in taking part?

It is expected that this research project will not directly benefit you. The outcomes of the research, however, may benefit future policy changes, ad campaigns and future drivers through changes to road safety interventions.

Will I be compensated for my time?

To recognise your contribution, the research team is offering you an entry into a prize draw to win one of four $50 Woolworths E-gift vouchers.

I am interested - what should I do next?

Participate in the study

QUT Ethics Number: 10958