At the beginning of this study, you should ask your teen the following question(s):
How do you feel about driving? Solicit their input about their level of confidence, perceived risk, what tasks make them nervous, or if they have had any driving experiences that affect their feelings. Repeat the essence of their feelings so they know that you are listening to them.
How do you feel about driving alone? You may learn that they are nervous to drive alone, or that they feel uncomfortable in certain driving situations. Remember that, no matter what they say, your opinion does matter to them.
After you have asked your teen how they feel about driving, you are ready to begin the parent-teen communication guide to talk about safe driving that follows. It will be most effective if you can share these lessons when you are not in a hurry—when you are able to relax and not rush.
