Cognitive Distraction: Driving with Cellular Phones

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer notes that cell phone use in vehicles is a growing concern around the globe. The writer points out that many individuals and authorities believe that the use of cellular phones while driving contributes to the number of motor vehicle accidents on the road systems. The writer discusses that cognitive psychologists have studied this matter thoroughly in order to determine whether or not cellular phones pose a risk to driver performance. The majority of these studies have confirmed the suspicions and provided empirical evidence showing that the use of a cell phone while driving severely decreases driver attention and slows down reaction times to visual stimuli. This paper discusses two studies in particular that examine the perception of visual stimuli by drivers in relation to cellular phone use. Furthermore, research is proposed that would build upon the two articles discussed by combining the topics and determining exactly what kinds of hands-free devices used with cell phones, if any, are the most effective in creating a safe driving environment.

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Abstract
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From the Paper:

"In today's technology driven world nearly everyone takes measures to increase their accessibility to the outside world. These measures include e-mail, fax, the Internet, and cellular phones, just to name a few. However, as with all new advancements in technology and society, the increased accessibility to the outer world comes with a number of negative side effects or drawbacks. One area in which these drawbacks are highly pronounced is driving. Driving used to be a relatively simple task, with few cars on the road, few distractions, and a lack of any form of technology within the vehicle beyond a steering wheel, gear shift, mirrors, gas pedal and break - all items required for driving the vehicle. Today, however, cars come equipped with high powered stereo systems, compasses, electronic-visual navigation systems, televisions, drink holders, fax machines, outlets for computers, and cellular phones. "

Sample of Sources Used:

• Anonymous. (2001). Keeping drivers' eyes on the road. The UMTRI Research Review, 32(1), 1-4.
• Garcia-Larrea, L, Perchet, C., Perrin, F., & Amenedo, E. (2001). Interference of Cellular Phone Conversations with Visuomotor Tasks: An ERP Study. Journal of Psychophysiology, 15,14-21.
• McCartt, A.T., Braver, E.R., & Geary, L.L. (2003). Driver's use of handheld cell phones before and after New York State's cell phone law. Preventative Medicine, 36, 629-635.
• Spence, C. & Read, L. (2003). Speech Shadowing While Driving: On the Difficulty of Splitting Attention Between Eye and Ear. Psychological Science, 14(3), 251- 256.
• Strayer, D.L. & Johnston, W.A. (2001). Driven to Distraction: Dual-Task Studies of Simulated Driving and Conversing on a Cellular Telephone. Psychological Science, 12(6), 462-466.

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