Impulsivity and sensation seeking as predictors of drink driving: The moderating role of anticipated regret

Risk associated personality traits have been related to risky driving behaviours, such as drink driving. Identifying potentially modifiable factors which influence these relationships may help to direct prevention and intervention efforts. A data analytic sample of 482 drivers aged 17-24 years (70% female) from the ACT and surrounding region was utilised for analysis. Results demonstrated that sensation seeking (SS), but not rash impulsivity, was associated with increased odds of having driven when possibly affected by alcohol, as well as having driven the morning after drinking (when unsure whether alcohol was out of one’s system). The relationship between SS and driving when possibly affected by alcohol was moderated by anticipated regret. Findings highlight the need to differentiate forms of drink driving and the potential role of anticipated regret in reducing drink driving, including for those higher in sensation seeking.