Is It Normal For a Student’s Stress Level To Go Up Just Before a Driving Lesson?

ByRon Zuverink
Stress levels and driving

Experiencing elevated levels of stress before a driving lesson is entirely normal for many students. The prospect of operating a vehicle, especially for the first few times, can be anxiety-inducing due to a variety of factors.

The responsibility associated with driving is a significant factor in increasing the student’s stress. Students may feel pressure to follow traffic rules, be sure of their safety, and understanding the roads correctly. The awareness that they are in control of a moving car going down the road can lead to increased stress levels.

Not being familiar with driving methods and the road environment can be overwhelming. Learning to coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously, such as steering, braking, and viewing traffic, requires concentration and can be overwhelming initially. The fear of making a mistake and being looked down on, by the instructor may intensify the level of stress. Most students are not happy if they make a mistake or perhaps multiple mistakes. As the instructor we should always make sure our comments always have a positive side that the student will hear and see.

The fear of the unknown is a common factor. Students may feel uneasy about having to deal with the unexpected situations on the road or the challenges they haven’t experienced this unknown can add to the student’s pre-lesson stress level.

It’s very important for instructors and the students to recognize that this increased stress is a normal part of the learning in becoming a new driver. Instructors should always remind their student that making mistakes are opportunities for improvement.  Encouraging open communication about concerns and providing positive comments can help eliminate some of the stress that comes alone with driving lessons.

As students gain experience and confidence through repeated practice, repeated directions, these stress levels often decrease over time, leading to a more relaxed feeling about the lesson.

For more information or to schedule a class call 616-570-3487.

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