Research Papers (2009 – 2013)

Abstract

While research has shown that females represent a minority of the drunk driving problem, this population is a growing concern in light of several high-profile alcohol impaired crashes involving females, dramatic increases in female drunk driving arrests in the United States (U.S.), and smaller increases in their involvement in alcohol impaired crashes in recent years. The lack of progress and/or pronounced growth in the magnitude of this problem, particularly in the face of substantial declines in drunk driving among males, warrants further attention to better understand the characteristics of this problem and inform the development of strategies to reverse this trend. A 2011 literature review that explored the female impaired driver problem revealed that much of the research on this topic is dated. It also revealed that, while female drunk drivers share some common characteristics with males, they also have some distinct differences, particularly in relation to co-occurring disorders and drug use. A second study was undertaken to close knowledge gaps in relation to this issue. It consisted of a multi-faceted design that includes focus groups with over 150 first and repeat offenders and 36 key informant interviews with justice and treatment professionals in four states. Findings suggest some different profiles of female drunk drivers. In addition, results regarding their attitudes toward and experiences in the justice and treatment systems provide insight into opportunities for improvement. Renewed efforts to examine this issue are essential to ensure that women are subject to effective and appropriate interventions.

Robyn Robertson, Erin Holmes