Relationship Flashpoints #1 – Driving

Below are listed some approaches which can be used by a driver to assist nervous passengers.

Empathy for nervous passengers is a helpful starting point. Source info: Amaxophobia – https://nexusnursinginstitute.com/overcoming-car-passenger-anxiety-symptoms/

Amaxophobia sufferers can feel their heart race, palms sweat, or a sense of dread can wash over them as a passenger in a car. These are classic car passenger anxiety symptoms that many people experience but often overlook. Understanding and addressing this form of anxiety is crucial, not just for mental well-being but also for your safety and that of others on the road.

The Prevalence of Amaxophobia

Amaxophobia is more common than you might think. According to various studies, approximately 20-30% of the population experiences some form of driving-related anxiety. That’s nearly one in three people who feel uneasy, anxious, or downright terrified when faced with the prospect of getting into a car. A driver should take care of their passenger’s feelings of impending doom.

A Driver’s Responsibilities

Step 1 – Start in good time
Not in a rush, go out to the car first to check it is ready
Is the back clear if dogs are coming?
– are portable chairs needed? Is there ice on the windscreen? etc, etc.

Step 2 – Satnav
Setup satnav for the journey, with the route checked. 90% of unforeseen holdups will show up on google maps, for instance, road works. Forewarned is forearmed: an alternative route can be used.

Step 3 – Distraction
Play the passenger’s favourite music, start a conversation which is unrelated to the journey and not about driving itself. If exams are imminent then a school revision subject is an engaging and neutral topic. If younger children are passengers too, then a car game like “I-Spy” distracts a nervous passenger.

Step 4 – Smooth driving
Improve driving skills to ensure a smooth journey.
Sources: Advanced Driving Test, U.K.
Institute of Advanced Motoring (IAM) mantras can be used on each journey.
If smooth, advanced driving skills are being used then the competent driver should beware being distracted by a nervous passenger.
A nervous passenger can “trigger” a driver into feeling stressed.
Therefore, the driver must have their own calming techniques, deep breathing, centre themselves back to the “flow” of concentrating on their driving. The competent driver has to realise that it’s their passenger who is nervous and not get caught in an emotional contagion which affects their own driving. i.e., “everyone panicking”.