Why Are Teens Not Into Driving Nowadays? What Should Parents Do?

Melissa Klurman, a contributor to Parents, revealed that only about a quarter of 16-year-olds had a driver's license in 2014, a sharp decline from almost half in 1983, says the study by Michael Sivak and Brandon Schoettle at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute.

Elise Aronov, a clinical social worker with family practices in New York City and New Jersey, witnessed the soaring numbers of teens not getting a license and encouraged them to do what they are most comfortable with. 

However, parents would not be able to encourage their teens to try if no obstacle stops them from getting behind the wheel. Aronov advised that teens could get a license but not use it right away. She added they don't have to use it if they don't want to, but they should at least get a driver's license for their own sake. 

Parents need to remind adolescents that it's great to have at least options. Aronov noted that having a license is important, especially during emergencies, and like now that there is a pandemic. 

Read Also: When Can a Child Get a Tooth Extraction? How To Keep a Child's Teeth Healthy

Parents can take small steps to encourage teens to drive

Deirdre Narcisse, Psy.D., a clinical psychologist at Montclair State University, said that parents also need to check their teen's circle of friends as they can affect their child's decision to get a license. Some teens have peers who are not driving, affecting their perspective on driving. Dr. Narcisse added that it's okay for young ones not to get one as long as it is their decision and not because their friends influence them. 

However, if parents are eager to encourage their children to get into driving, they can take small steps to make them comfortable with the idea of driving, such as introducing remote exposure. Parents can also introduce their children to online tutorials as it is one of the ways to learn to drive and is almost accessible for everyone. The primary step is to get their child somehow interested in driving.

Dr. Narcisse added that many children are just nervous about driving, especially when they have other options. The clinical psychologist said teens could not admit that they don't need to drive and would divert their attention to others as they are not into the idea of driving.

Many teens cite excuses to avoid getting a driver's license, including the environment-friendly transportation alternatives, while others say driving is stressful, per Team-BHP.

American teens are driving less

The percentage of teenage drivers has steadily declined over the years due to numerous reasons such as changing habits, new laws, and costs. At least 3.3 percent of licensed drivers between 16 to 19 in early 2016 is less than half the percentage 35 years ago.

Medium reported that the cost of an additional vehicle is also too much for many families. On the other hand, some teenagers admitted that they do not have enough time to get a license.

Related Article: Boosting Teenagers' Confidence: How to Help Teenagers Have a Healthy Body Image