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Pan H, Payre W, Gao Z, Wang Y. Exploring driving anger-caused impairment of takeover performance among professional taxi drivers during partially automated driving. ACCIDENT; ANALYSIS AND PREVENTION 2024; 205:107686. [PMID: 38909484 DOI: 10.1016/j.aap.2024.107686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Partially automated systems are expected to reduce road crashes related to human error, even amongst professional drivers. Consequently, the applications of these systems into the taxi industry would potentially improve transportation safety. However, taxi drivers are prone to experiencing driving anger, which may subsequently affect their takeover performance. In this research, we explored how driving anger emotion affects taxi drivers' driving performance in various takeover scenarios, namely Mandatory Automation-Initiated transition (MAIT), Mandatory Driver-Initiated transition (MDIT), and Optional Driver-Initiated transition (ODIT). Forty-seven taxi drivers participated in this 2·3 mixed design simulator experiment (between-subjects: anger vs. calmness; within-subjects: MAIT vs. MDIT vs. ODIT). Compared to calmness, driving anger emotion led to a narrower field of attention (e.g., smaller standard deviations of horizontal fixation points position) and worse hazard perception (e.g., longer saccade latency, smaller amplitude of skin conductance responses), which resulted in longer takeover time and inferior vehicle control stability (e.g., higher standard deviations of lateral position) in MAIT and MDIT scenarios. Angry taxi drivers were more likely to deactivate vehicle automation and take over the vehicle in a more aggressive manner (e.g., higher maximal resulting acceleration, refusing to yield to other road users) in ODIT scenarios. The findings will contribute to addressing the safety concerns related to driving anger among professional taxi drivers and promote the widespread acceptance and integration of partially automated systems within the taxi industry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hengyan Pan
- School of Transportation Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an 710018, China.
| | - William Payre
- National Transport Design Centre, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 2TT, UK.
| | - Zhixiang Gao
- School of Transportation Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an 710018, China
| | - Yonggang Wang
- School of Transportation Engineering, Chang'an University, Xi'an 710018, China.
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Razzaghi A, Afshari A, Shahsavarinia K, Yazdani M, Nouri A. Distraction and related risk factors among professional and non-professional drivers. Heliyon 2024; 10:e31530. [PMID: 38828322 PMCID: PMC11140615 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e31530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Distraction is one of the main driver's behavioral factors that reduces the performance of the drivers and might increase the accident risk. Distraction while driving holds significant importance, especially among professional drivers, and failure to address this matter may result in adverse implications for traffic safety. The present study was conducted to investigate distraction and related risk factors between two groups of private vehicle drivers and taxi drivers. Methods This analytical cross-sectional study was carried out in Tabriz, Iran in 2022. The total sample size in this study was 701 taxi drivers, professional drivers, and private vehicle drivers. The independent samples t-test was used to determine the statistically significant difference between groups and its sub-scales between the two studied groups. Moreover, the multivariable linear regression analysis was used to determine the predictors that affect distraction score. The test's level of significance was considered at 0.05. Results The mean distraction score among taxi drivers surpasses that of private vehicle drivers (2.82 vs. 2.32, p-value<0.05). The drivers with negative scores, over the past year, among private vehicle drivers and taxi drivers were 2.5 % and 5.2 %, respectively (p-value<0.05). A group of taxi drivers exhibits a higher level of distraction while driving and the mean distraction score for private vehicle drivers is lower than that of taxi drivers (β = -0.11, CI 95 %: 0.17, -0.05). Also, a history of damage or injury accidents has a significant impact on distraction while driving (β = 0.12, CI 95 %; 0.06-0.17). Conclusions The results indicate that distraction while driving is high amongst taxi drivers rather than private vehicle drivers. To have effective driver safety promotion interventions, it is recommended to consider driver distraction based on professional and non-professional drivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Razzaghi
- Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran/ Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
| | - Abolfazl Afshari
- Departments of Civil Engineering, University of Yazd, Yazd, Iran
| | - Kavous Shahsavarinia
- Emergency and Trauma Care Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mirbahador Yazdani
- Road Traffic Injury Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Adel Nouri
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran
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Lui F, Finik J, Wu M, Leng J, Gany F. The Association of Untreated Mental Health Problems with Alcohol and Tobacco use Among New York City Taxi Drivers. J Community Health 2023; 48:1015-1025. [PMID: 37322364 PMCID: PMC10658444 DOI: 10.1007/s10900-023-01246-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mental disorders and substance use disorders are highly comorbid. The "self-medication hypothesis" posits that individuals may use substances such as tobacco and alcohol to cope with symptoms associated with untreated mental health problems. The present study examined the association between having a currently untreated mental health condition and tobacco and alcohol use among male taxi drivers in NYC, a population at risk for poor mental and physical health outcomes. METHODS The sample included 1105 male, ethnoracially diverse, primarily foreign-born NYC taxi drivers participating in a health fair program. This secondary cross-sectional analysis utilized logistic regression modeling to examine whether endorsement of a currently untreated mental health problem (i.e., depression, anxiety, or posttraumatic stress disorder) was associated with alcohol and/or tobacco use, controlling for potential confounders. RESULTS 8.5% of drivers reported having mental health problems; among these, only 0.5% reported receiving treatment. Untreated mental health problems were associated with an increased risk of current tobacco/alcohol use after controlling for age, educational attainment, nativity, and pain history: drivers with untreated mental health problems had 1.9x the odds of reporting current tobacco use [95% CI: 1.10-3.19] and 1.6x the odds of reporting current alcohol use [95% CI: 1.01-2.46] than those without untreated mental health problems. CONCLUSIONS Few drivers with mental health problems receive treatment. In line with the self-medication hypothesis, drivers with untreated mental health problems demonstrated significantly increased risk of tobacco and alcohol use. Efforts to encourage timely screening and treatment of mental health problems among taxi drivers are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Lui
- Immigrant Health and Cancer Disparities Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jackie Finik
- Immigrant Health and Cancer Disparities Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Minlun Wu
- Immigrant Health and Cancer Disparities Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Leng
- Immigrant Health and Cancer Disparities Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Francesca Gany
- Immigrant Health and Cancer Disparities Service, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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Li J, Zhou Y, Ge Y, Qu W. Sensation seeking predicts risky driving behavior: The mediating role of difficulties in emotion regulation. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2023; 43:1871-1886. [PMID: 36314116 DOI: 10.1111/risa.14066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to explore the mediating effect of difficulties in emotion regulation on the relationship between sensation seeking and driving behavior based on the dual-process model of aberrant driving behavior. A sample of 299 drivers in China completed the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale, the Driver Behavior Questionnaire, and the Sensation Seeking Scale V (SSS). The relationships among sensation seeking, difficulties in emotion regulation, and driving behavior were investigated using pathway analysis. The results showed that (1) disinhibition and boredom susceptibility are positively and significantly related to difficulties in emotion regulation and risky driving behaviors; (2) difficulties in emotion regulation are positively and significantly associated with risky driving behaviors; (3) difficulties in emotion regulation mediate the effect of sensation seeking on driving behaviors, supporting the dual-process model of driving behavior; and (4) professional drivers score higher in terms of difficulties in emotion regulation and risky driving behaviors than nonprofessional drivers. The findings of this study could provide valuable insights into the selection of suitable drivers and the development of certain programs that benefit road safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Ying Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yan Ge
- CAS Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Weina Qu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Behavioral Science, Institute of Psychology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- Department of Psychology, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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Kerautret L, Dabic S, Navarro J. Exploring hazard anticipation and stress while driving in light of defensive behavior theory. Sci Rep 2023; 13:7883. [PMID: 37188755 PMCID: PMC10185512 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-34714-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
In driving, poor hazard anticipation would provide drivers less time to prepare an appropriate response, increasing the urgency of the situation and generating more stress. Assuming this, the current study seeks to determine whether a predictable road hazard triggers hazard anticipation in drivers that can mitigate the ensuing stress response, and whether the stress response is influenced by driving experience. In a simulated road environment, a cue was used to trigger hazard anticipation, and a road hazard to induce a stress response. Heart rate, pupil diameter, driving speed, subjective stress, arousal, and negative emotions, were retrieved from 36 drivers who all faced the cue followed by the hazard (i.e. a predictable hazard), the cue only, and the hazard only. In the light of work on defensive behaviors, the findings indicate that a predictable hazard triggers hazard anticipation detectable via (1) freezing behavior-characterized by cardiac deceleration-(2) anticipatory pupil dilation and (3) anticipatory speed deceleration. The results also point to a beneficial role for hazard anticipation in reducing driver stress, as evidenced by reductions in peak heart rate levels, as well as in reported levels of stress and negative emotions. Finally, the findings showed an influence of driving experience on reported levels of stress. Overall, this study shows how previous work on defensive behaviors can be used to gain insight into the processes and driving behaviors involved in hazard anticipation and stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laora Kerautret
- Valeo Interior Controls, Rue Jules Verne, 74100, Annemasse, France.
- Laboratoire d'Etude des Mecanismes Cognitifs (EA 3082), University Lyon 2, 5 Avenue Pierre Mendès, 69676, Bron, France.
| | - Stephanie Dabic
- Valeo Interior Controls, Rue Jules Verne, 74100, Annemasse, France
| | - Jordan Navarro
- Laboratoire d'Etude des Mecanismes Cognitifs (EA 3082), University Lyon 2, 5 Avenue Pierre Mendès, 69676, Bron, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
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Pykett J, Campbell N, Fenton SJ, Gagen E, Lavis A, Newbigging K, Parkin V, Williams J. Urban precarity and youth mental health: An interpretive scoping review of emerging approaches. Soc Sci Med 2023; 320:115619. [PMID: 36641884 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Circumstances of living are key to shaping emotional and affective experiences, long term health, wellbeing and opportunities. In an era characterised by rapid urbanisation across the majority of the world, there is increasing interest in the interaction between mental health and urban environments, but insufficient attention is paid to how mental health is situated in space and time. Socio-economic inequalities are prevalent in many urban environments globally, making conditions of living highly precarious for some social groups including young people. There remains a large volume of unmet mental health service needs, and young people are impacted by uncertain economic futures. The purpose of this scoping review is to develop an interdisciplinary and globally-informed understanding of the urban conditions which affect youth mental health across a range of scales, and to identify protective factors which can promote better youth mental health. We seek to broaden the scope of urban mental health research beyond the physical features of urban environments to develop an interpretive framework based on perspectives shared by young people. We illustrate how concepts from social theory can be used as an integrative framework to emphasise both young people's lived experiences and the wider cultural and political dynamics of urban mental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Pykett
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Institute for Mental Health and Centre for Urban Wellbeing, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Niyah Campbell
- Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Sarah-Jane Fenton
- School of Social Policy and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Elizabeth Gagen
- Department of Geography and Earth Sciences, Aberystwyth University, Llandinam Building, Penglais Campus, Aberystwyth, SY23 3DB, Wales, UK.
| | - Anna Lavis
- Institute of Applied Health Research and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Karen Newbigging
- School of Social Policy and Institute for Mental Health, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Verity Parkin
- Liberal Arts and Natural Sciences Alumni, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Jessy Williams
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 2TT, UK.
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McMahon J, Thompson DR, Brazil K, Ski CF. Co-Design of an eHealth Intervention to Reduce Cardiovascular Disease Risk in Male Taxi Drivers: ManGuard. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:15278. [PMID: 36429995 PMCID: PMC9690601 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192215278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 11/09/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Taxi driving, a male-dominated occupation, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The increased risk is linked to a high prevalence of modifiable CVD risk factors including overweight/obesity, poor nutrition, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and physical inactivity. Behaviour change interventions may prove advantageous, yet little research has been conducted to reduce CVD risk in this population. The purpose of this study was to co-design an eHealth intervention, 'ManGuard', to reduce CVD risk in male taxi drivers. The IDEAS framework was utilised to guide the development of the eHealth intervention, with the Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW) incorporated throughout to ensure the intervention was underpinned by behaviour change theory. Development and refinement of ManGuard was guided by current literature, input from a multidisciplinary team, an online survey, a systematic review and meta-analysis, and focus groups (n = 3) with male taxi drivers. Physical inactivity was identified as the prime behavior to change in order to reduce CVD risk in male taxi drivers. Male taxi drivers indicated a preference for an eHealth intervention to be delivered using smartphone technology, with a simple design, providing concise, straightforward, and relatable content, and with the ability to track and monitor progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- James McMahon
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - David R. Thompson
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Kevin Brazil
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
| | - Chantal F. Ski
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast, Belfast BT9 7BL, UK
- Integrated Care Academy, University of Suffolk, Ipswich IP4 1QJ, UK
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Robbins R, Trinh-Shevrin C, Chong SK, Chanko N, Diaby F, Quan SF, Kwon SC. Examining demographic, work, and sleep characteristics among older South Asian American yellow taxi drivers in New York City: A brief report. Sleep Med 2022; 96:128-131. [PMID: 35661054 PMCID: PMC9285874 DOI: 10.1016/j.sleep.2022.04.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This exploratory study examines workplace factors, sleep, sleep disorders, and safety among older (age 50 years and above) yellow taxi drivers in New York City (NYC) of South Asian descent. METHODS Using street intercept methods, quantitative data was collected among yellow taxi drivers in NYC (n = 27) from January-March 2020. RESULTS Among drivers, higher than normal sleepiness was identified in 33%, sleeping fewer than 7 hours on worknights work nights was reported by 52%, and 37% were at high risk for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Among drivers, 11% (n = 3) reported a motor vehicle accident in the past year and all drivers who reported an accident were at high risk for OSA. CONCLUSIONS Findings from this hard-to-reach and understudied population revealed that most drivers did not report sufficient sleep on work nights. Results found over one-third of drivers had high OSA risk and drivers at high risk for OSA contributed to all reports of motor vehicle crashes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Robbins
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Chau Trinh-Shevrin
- Department of Population Health, Section for Health Equity, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stella K Chong
- Department of Population Health, Section for Health Equity, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicholas Chanko
- Department of Population Health, Section for Health Equity, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Fatoumata Diaby
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences and Professional Studies, College of Medicine, Drexel University, USA
| | - Stuart F Quan
- Division of Sleep and Circadian Disorders, Departments of Medicine and Neurology, Brigham & Women's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA; Division of Sleep Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Simona C Kwon
- Department of Population Health, Section for Health Equity, NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
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Louzado-Feliciano P, Santiago KM, Ogunsina K, Kling HE, Murphy LA, Schaefer Solle N, Caban-Martinez AJ. Characterizing the Health and Safety Concerns of U.S. Rideshare Drivers: A Qualitative Pilot Study. Workplace Health Saf 2022; 70:310-318. [PMID: 35382630 DOI: 10.1177/21650799221076873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the growth and popularity of gig work, limited information exists about the occupational health and safety concerns faced by individuals who are employed through ridesharing online applications. In this qualitative study, we characterized the perceived health and safety concerns of drivers employed by rideshare companies. METHODS During September-October 2019, we requested car rides, using digital rideshare platforms. During the ride, drivers responded verbally to a brief closed-end sociodemographic and work characteristics survey. A semi-structured interview script was used to collect rideshare driver perceptions on health and safety risks. FINDINGS A total of 35 rideshare drivers of group mean age of 43.1 ± 11.2 years were interviewed, of whom 77.1% were male and 82.9% identified as Latino. Sixty percent of participants reported rideshare as their primary job, working an average of 47.9 ± 19.6 hours weekly (minimum = 6 hours, maximum = 84 hours). Drivers enjoyed job autonomy yet faced stressors such as passenger risky behavior, car accidents, and lack of policies that protect the driver. Rideshare drivers also raised concerns about their current health status, economic pressures, and worker safety. CONCLUSION/APPLICATION TO PRACTICE Drivers are forced to extend work hours to support themselves financially, exacerbating their current health concerns and safety risks as it means more time spent working in their sedentary job, compromising their mental and physical health as well as their safety. Occupational health and safety programs geared toward workers in the gig economy are needed.
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Pignot E. Who is pulling the strings in the platform economy? Accounting for the dark and unexpected sides of algorithmic control. ORGANIZATION 2021. [DOI: 10.1177/1350508420974523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This paper aims to address the dark side perspective on digital control and surveillance by emphasizing the affective grip of ideological control, namely the process that silently ensures the subjugation of digital labour, and which keeps the ‘unexpectedness’ of algorithmic practices at bay: that is, the propensity of users to contest digital prescriptions. In particular, the theoretical contribution of this paper is to combine Labour Process with psychoanalytically-informed, post-structuralist theory, in order to connect to, and further our understanding of, how and why digital workers assent to, or oppose, the interpellations of algorithmic ideology at work. To illustrate the operation of affective control in the Platform Economy, the emblematic example of ride-hailing platforms, such as Uber, and their algorithmic management, is revisited. Thus, the empirical section describes the way drivers are glued to the algorithm (e.g. for one more fare, or for the next surge pricing) in a way that prevents them, although not always, from considering genuine resistance to management. Finally, the paper discusses the central place of ideological fantasy and cynical enjoyment in the Platform Economy, as well as the ethical implications of the study.
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Useche SA, Alonso F, Cendales B, Montoro L, Llamazares J. Measuring job stress in transportation workers: psychometric properties, convergent validity and reliability of the ERI and JCQ among professional drivers. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:1594. [PMID: 34454472 PMCID: PMC8399823 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-021-11575-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The accumulated evidence has shown how professional drivers are, in psychosocial terms, among the most vulnerable workforces, and how their crashes (some of them preceded by stressful working conditions) constitute both an occupational and public health concern. However, there is a clear lack of validated tools for measuring stress and other key hazardous issues affecting transport workers, and most of the existing ones, frequently generic, do not fully consider the specific features that properly describe the work environment of professional driving. This study assessed the psychometric properties, convergent validity and consistency of two measures used for researching occupational stress among professional drivers: the Siegrist's ERI (Effort-Reward Imbalance Inventory) and Karasek's JCQ (Job Content Questionnaire). METHODS We examined the data collected from 726 Spanish professional drivers. Analyses were performed using Structural Equation Models, thus obtaining basic psychometric properties of both measures and an optimized structure for the instruments, in addition to testing their convergent validity. RESULTS The results suggest that the abbreviated versions of ERI (10 items) and JCQ (20 items) have clear dimensional structures, high factorial weights, internal consistency and an improved fit to the task's dynamics and hazards, commonly faced by of professional drivers; a short set of items with low psychometrical adjustment was excluded, and the root structure of the questionnaires was kept. CONCLUSIONS This study supports the value and reliability of ERI-10 and JCQ-20 for measuring job stress among professional drivers. Also, there is a high consistency between both measures of stress, even though they belong to different theoretical conceptions of the phenomenon. In practical settings, these instruments can be useful for occupational researchers and practitioners studying stress-related issues from the perspective of human factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Useche
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain. .,DATS (Development and Advising in Traffic Safety) Research Group, INTRAS (Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety), University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Francisco Alonso
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,DATS (Development and Advising in Traffic Safety) Research Group, INTRAS (Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety), University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Boris Cendales
- Faculty of Economic and Administrative Sciences, El Bosque University, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Luis Montoro
- Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,FACTHUM. Lab (Human Factor and Road Safety) Research Group, INTRAS (Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety), University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Llamazares
- Department of Technology, ESIC Business and Marketing School, Madrid, Spain
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Saragih FA, Loebis B, Camellia V, Effendy E. Factors Associated with Psychological Distress of Online Drivers in Medan Regency, North Sumatera, Indonesia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2021.6295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In developing countries, public health issues that are often discussed about psychological distress that can be characterized by anxiety, sadness, stress, depression, and confusing feelings. Online drivers have the potential to experience the stress of psychological distress. The individual is faced with various pressures from work or family such as competition between transportation to get passengers daily, long working time to achieve the target leads, the obligation to pay off the loan, and responsibilities to family needs often cause stress.
Method: This study was a multivariate type of predictive analysis to finding out factors associated with GHQ-12 scores of the online drivers with 110 samples who have fulfilled inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results: Found the factors associated with psychological distress that is marital status, number of family members, length of education, working experience, age, length of work/day, daily target achievement, and total income/month of online drivers
Conclusion: From the results of this study it was found that the most associated factors with psychological distress scores are total income/month.
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Marani H, Roche B, Anderson L, Rai M, Agarwal P, Martin D. The impact of working conditions on the health of taxi drivers in an urban metropolis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF WORKPLACE HEALTH MANAGEMENT 2020. [DOI: 10.1108/ijwhm-03-2020-0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
PurposeThis descriptive qualitative study explores how working conditions impact the health of taxi drivers in Toronto, Canada.Design/methodology/approachDrivers were recruited between September 2016 and March 2017. A total of 14 semi-structured qualitative interviews and one focus group (n = 11) were conducted. Transcripts were analyzed inductively through a socioecological lens.FindingsThe findings of this study are as follows: drivers acknowledged that job precariousness (represented by unstable employment, long hours and low wages) and challenging workplace conditions (sitting all day and limited breaks) contribute to poor physical/mental health. Also, these conditions undermine opportunities to engage in health-protective behaviors (healthy eating, regularly exercising and taking breaks). Drivers do not receive health-enabling reinforcements from religious/cultural networks, colleagues or their taxi brokerage. Drivers do seek support from their primary care providers and family for their physical health but remain discreet about their mental health.Research limitations/implicationsAs this study relied on a convenience sample, the sample did not represent all Toronto taxi drivers. All interviews were completed in English and all drivers were male, thus limiting commentary on other experiences and any gender differences in health management approaches among drivers.Practical implicationsGiven the global ubiquity of taxi driving and an evolving workplace environment characterized by growing competition, findings are generalizable across settings and may resonate with other precarious professions, including long-haul truck operators and Uber/Lyft drivers. Findings also expose areas for targeted intervention outside the workplace setting.Originality/valueHealth management among taxi drivers is understudied. A fulsome, socioecological understanding of how working conditions (both within and outside the workplace) impact their health is essential in developing targeted interventions to improve health outcomes.
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Davidson S, Fletcher S, Wadley G, Reavley N, Gunn J, Wade D. A Mobile Phone App to Improve the Mental Health of Taxi Drivers: Single-Arm Feasibility Trial. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e13133. [PMID: 31939743 PMCID: PMC6996768 DOI: 10.2196/13133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Revised: 05/27/2019] [Accepted: 08/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Psychological distress among taxi drivers is 5 times higher than that in the general population, and more than half of all drivers have experienced 3 or more potentially traumatic events in their lifetime. Nevertheless, help-seeking for mental health problems in this male-dominated, predominately immigrant workforce is low. Mobile technologies have the potential to increase mental health awareness, teach self-help skills, and encourage help-seeking in this hard-to-reach population. Objective This study aimed to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and potential efficacy of Driving to Health, a mobile phone–friendly mental health website app designed for people working as taxi drivers. Methods Drivers (n=46) were recruited from the Melbourne Airport Taxi Holding Yard to participate in a single-arm trial. Self-reported, paper-based assessments were completed at baseline and at 1 month. Feasibility was measured by completion rates, representativeness of study participants, and levels of use. Acceptability was assessed by measuring users’ perception of the quality of the app and anticipated levels of future use. The efficacy of Driving to Health to increase awareness, self-help behaviors, and intentions to seek help was assessed using the user version of the Mobile App Rating Scale (uMARS) and the General Help-Seeking Questionnaire (GHSQ). Psychological symptoms were measured using the short form of the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Data were analyzed using complete case analysis. Results In total, 42 participants comprising drivers from 10 different countries of origin, and 14 different languages, completed pre- and poststudy measures (42/46, 91% completion rate). Just under half (45%) of all users used the app more than once with an average visit of 4 min 8 seconds. Responding to the uMARS, 62% (26/42) of the participants said that they would recommend the app to many people. Nearly all (40/42, 95%) participants said that Driving to Health increased awareness of their own mental health; 86% (36/42) said that it increased their mental health knowledge; and 76% (32/42) said that it increased their self-help behaviors. Increases in help-seeking intentions on the GHSQ were not significant, and increases on all 3 scales of DASS-21 were not reliable or meaningful. Conclusions This study suggests that Driving to Health is an acceptable and feasible electronic health intervention for a hard-to-reach population. Our findings also suggest that Driving to Health results in increases in mental health awareness, behaviors, and willingness to seek help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Davidson
- Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Susan Fletcher
- Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Greg Wadley
- School of Computing and Information Systems, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
| | - Nicola Reavley
- Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Jane Gunn
- Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
| | - Darryl Wade
- Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Phoenix Australia, Carlton, Australia.,Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
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Orleans R, Boutin‐Foster C, Scott E, Ramos R, Faussett Z, Lata Armijos JD. "Always on the go": A qualitative study of the perceptions of cardiovascular disease risk among Latino cab drivers. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:1103-1111. [PMID: 31502673 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2019] [Revised: 08/09/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The taxicab industry is a burgeoning occupation that predominantly employs immigrant males from low socioeconomic backgrounds. Factors such as sedentary nature, environmental factors, high stress coupled with socioeconomic factors may increase cardiovascular disease risk among taxicab drivers. Latinos, a growing immigrant population make up approximately 20% of this industry. However, few studies focus on their experiences as cab drivers or on the factors that may increase their cardiovascular risks. METHODS This was an ethnographic qualitative study. Data was collected via individual interviews combined with Go-Alongs. The Go-Along is an observational qualitative method whereby researchers accompany participants during routine activities and make observations. Interviews and observations were transcribed and coded to identify emerging themes. RESULTS Thirty-two Latino male cab drivers participated; their mean age was 45 + 12 years; 47% did not finish high school; and 63% earned $30 000 or less. Time and stress emerged as dominant themes. Time constraints posed a barrier to healthy eating and physical activity. Drivers reported stress from constantly worrying about their finances and personal safety. Drivers also described stress from the physical toll of driving on the body. Go-Alongs supported these themes and identified social interactions and environmental factors that could be leveraged for health promotion. CONCLUSIONS This study provided an opportunity for cab drivers to describe their perspectives on reasons why their occupation was associated with a high risk for cardiovascular disease. The Go-Alongs contributed to the understanding of the social and environmental context that characterized cardiovascular risks in this occupation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Orleans
- Department of Medicine, Division of Internal MedicineWeill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Carla Boutin‐Foster
- Department of Medicine, Division of Internal MedicineState University of New York Downstate Medical Center New York New York
| | - Ebony Scott
- Department of Population HealthNew York University School of Medicine New York New York
| | - Rosio Ramos
- Department of Medicine, Division of Internal MedicineWeill Cornell Medical College New York New York
| | - Zenobia Faussett
- School of MedicineHoward University College of Medicine Washington, DC
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Burgel BJ, Elshatarat RA. Associations between daily-on-the job hassles with perceived mental exertion and depression symptoms in taxi drivers. Am J Ind Med 2019; 62:791-802. [PMID: 31328812 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2019] [Revised: 06/01/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Taxi drivers experience frequent hassles that may contribute to mental exertion and depression symptoms. AIM Mental exertion and depression symptoms in taxi drivers are explored in association with hassles, effort-reward imbalance, job strain, and iso-strain. METHODS Personal interviews were conducted with 130 drivers in San Francisco. RESULTS Mental exertion averaged 4.5 (±2.68) and physical exertion averaged 3.71 (±2.1) on 0 to 10 Borg scales. Based on the Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression scale, 38% had depression symptoms. Mental exertion and depression symptoms correlated with job strain, iso-strain and effort-reward imbalance in anticipated directions, lending construct validity to the Borg mental exertion scale. Physical exertion, night shift, stressful personal events, and being uninsured for healthcare predicted mental exertion. Lack of respect by dispatchers and stressful personal events predicted depression symptoms. CONCLUSION Selected hassles may be remedied by communication trainings, emphasizing mutual respect. Recognition and treatment of depression in taxi drivers are important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara J. Burgel
- Department of Community Health SystemsSchool of Nursing, University of California San Francisco California
| | - Rami A. Elshatarat
- Department of Medical and Surgical NursingCollege of Nursing, Taibah University Madinah Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
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Useche SA, Montoro L, Alonso F, Pastor JC. Psychosocial Work Factors, Job Stress and Strain at the Wheel: Validation of the Copenhagen Psychosocial Questionnaire (COPSOQ) in Professional Drivers. Front Psychol 2019; 10:1531. [PMID: 31312166 PMCID: PMC6614297 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2019.01531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Psychosocial work environment has been related to many negative health outcomes in different workforces. However, evidence in this regard is still limited in the case of transport workers, and most of the tools used in research, often excessively generic, do not fully consider the specific key stressors, and adverse issues present in the psychosocial environment of professional driving. Objective Thus, the purpose of this study was to obtain a complete description of the validation of measurement applied to psychosocial factors at work in professional drivers, using the Enterprise version (2018) of COPSOQ-III. Methods The data was collected from 726 Spanish professional drivers, and the analyses were conducted using the competitive Confirmatory Factor Analysis or CFA, obtaining basic psychometric properties and an optimized structure for the instrument applied to active transport workers. Results The results suggest a clear factorial structure, high factorial weights, internal consistency, and an improved adjustment to the psychosocial conditions of this group, excluding a set of items with low psychometrical adjustment and keeping the five-factor structure of the questionnaire: demands, influence and development, interpersonal relationships and leadership, job insecurity, and strain-effects and outcomes. Conclusion Overall, what was found in this study supports the hypothesis that the validated version of COPSOQ in professional drivers, together with complementary information sources specific for their work environment, may have a relevant research value and some important practical implications for the improvement of the occupational safety, and health within the typically vulnerable industry of transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio A Useche
- Development and Advising in Traffic Safety Research Group, University Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Luis Montoro
- FACTHUM.lab (Human Factor and Road Safety) Research Group, University Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Alonso
- Development and Advising in Traffic Safety Research Group, University Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Juan C Pastor
- Development and Advising in Traffic Safety Research Group, University Research Institute on Traffic and Road Safety, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Rathi A, Kumar V, Singh A, Lal P. A Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence of Depression, Anxiety and Stress among Professional Cab Drivers in New Delhi. Indian J Occup Environ Med 2019; 23:48-53. [PMID: 31040590 PMCID: PMC6477938 DOI: 10.4103/ijoem.ijoem_158_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The profession of drivers is one of the occupational groups exposed to very poor working conditions. This study aimed to establish the prevalence of depression, anxiety and stress among cab drivers. Materials and Methods This cross-sectional study included 134 cab drivers. Their mental health status was assessed with the help of a screening tool - Depression Anxiety Stress Scale (DASS-21). Their demographic details, working conditions, lifestyle factors and use of habit-forming substances were also assessed with the help of a semi-structured questionnaire. Results It was revealed that all cab drivers were male and between 20 to 64 years of age. Eighty two (62%) drivers said they are sometimes irritated at work, 29 (21.5%) said they feel irritated daily and rest 23 (17.2%) said that they were never irritated at work. When screened for depression, anxiety and stress, it was found out that 81 (60.5%) were suffering from depression, 63 (47%) from anxiety and 49 (36.5%) had variable degree of stress. Conclusion Cab drivers are at high risk of acquiring mental health diseases, yet the mental health of this large workforce is ignored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akanksha Rathi
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Vikas Kumar
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, New Delhi, India
| | - Amrita Singh
- Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India
| | - Panna Lal
- Department of Community Medicine, Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar Medical College and Hospital, New Delhi, India
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