Stress-related psychophysiological reactions of truck drivers in relation to anxiety, defense, and situational factors.
A system analytic frame of reference is chosen for analysing interindividual differences in driving a technically optimised tank-lorry in comparison to a standard tank-lorry. Seven professional tank-lorry drivers were tested with psychological tests, and their test results were related to physiological measures assessed under different driving conditions in both lorry types. Two dimensions were used to explain the pattern of interactions between the independent (psychological and situational) and dependent (physiological) variables. It is argued that beyond technical improvements, also taking into account information on personality variables and situational factors is a promising approach to accident prevention research.