A systematic review of the effectiveness of behavioural interventions for improving driving outcomes in novice drivers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

Introduction: The efficacy of non-pharmacological interventions for improving driving outcomes in young drivers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder has not been established. Such interventions are of interest to occupational therapists who work with this population to attain driving independence. This research article had two aims: (1) to systematically review the effectiveness of behavioural interventions to improve driving outcomes for this population, and (2) to identify studies detailing behavioural interventions that could be used to improve driving skills. Method: Nineteen databases were searched and 13 studies were appraised using the PEDro scale (the Physiotherapy Evidence Database), where appropriate. Findings: For the first aim, while two studies reported training led to significant improvements in driver skills, methodological problems limited the validity of one study. Eleven studies were reviewed in relation to the second aim, describing nine interventions. Of these, situation awareness training, such as commentary driving, show particular promise. Conclusion: Several interventions have the potential to improve the driving skills of this population. These interventions warrant further research and in the interim could be used clinically by occupational therapy driver assessors. Further research is required to determine if non-pharmacological interventions are of benefit for young drivers with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Situation awareness training may be beneficial for improving driving skills.