Estilos de conducción y salud mental en conductores motorizados en Ecuador

Abstract

Abstract: In Ecuador, road safety depends not only on technical factors, but also on psychological and behavioral variables. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between driving styles, mental health, and alcohol consumption among motor vehicle drivers in Quitumbe, south of Quito. The methodology employed a mixed-methods approach, using a descriptive, non-experimental, cross-sectional design with a convenience sample of 50 drivers aged 18 to 60. The instruments used were the Multidimensional Driving Style Inventory (MDSI), the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ-28), and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). The results showed a predominance of maladaptive driving styles, such as reckless, aggressive, anxious, and distracted driving, which were associated with anxiety, insomnia, and social dysfunction. It was also found that risky driving styles are associated with alcohol consumption, which increases the likelihood of reckless behavior and frequent errors. In conclusion, psychological factors influence road safety; therefore, integrating mental health assessments and psychoeducational strategies will help minimize accidents and enhance drivers well-being.