Research In Action

Coming from an electrical engineering background, I never anticipated working in behavioral research. However, my growing interest in medical robotics and healthcare technology led me to CHOP’s Center for Injury Research and Prevention (CIRP), where I had the opportunity to explore how ADHD impacts teen driving behaviors and road safety outcomes. 

With motor vehicle crashes remaining the leading cause of death among teens, and evidence showing that teen drivers with ADHD have nearly double the crash and near-crash risk compared to their peers without ADHD, this area of research has deep public health implications. 

During my time at CIRP, I had the privilege of working under the guidance of Dr. Allison E. Curry, Lauren O'Malley, Dr. Haley Bishop, Chelsea Ward McIntosh, Olivia Comstock, and Kylie Booth. Their mentorship played a key role in shaping my understanding of behavioral research and the importance of data-driven interventions in injury prevention. 

My Role in the Research 

Training at Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) 

Under the mentorship of Charlie Klauer, Kevin Sullivan, and David Tyler, I was trained in operating data acquisition systems used in naturalistic driving studies. I learned how these systems collect real-world data on driving behavior tracking factors such as reaction times, lane positioning, and multitasking behind the wheel. This hands-on experience laid the groundwork for understanding how subtle behavioral patterns can influence crash risk. 

Vehicle Installation and Data Collection at CHOP 

Back at CIRP, I assisted in the installation and configuration of these data acquisition systems in teen participant’s vehicles. Ensuring accurate and consistent setup was crucial to capturing high-quality behavioral data in real-world driving contexts. This step of the research was particularly meaningful as it connected technical precision with real-life impact. 

Behavioral Data Analysis and Interpretation 

I also assisted in reviewing and interpreting data outputs from the driving system. This work helped me better understand how certain driving behaviors are captured and how they might relate to crash risk. These insights can support ongoing efforts to develop more tailored training programs for teen drivers with ADHD. 

Empowering ADHD Teen Drivers Through Research and Awareness 

What stood out most to me during this co-op experience was the potential for research to inform not just technology or training programs, but personal empowerment. Teen drivers with ADHD may face unique challenges ranging from increased distractibility to differences in self-perception about driving ability, but raising awareness and promoting self-regulation can be transformative. 

By helping drivers recognize their risk factors and encouraging strategies for safer behavior, we move closer to creating more inclusive and effective driver education solutions. As research continues, I’m optimistic that technology, data, and behavioral science together will play a powerful role in improving road safety outcomes for all.