Anxiety: Beginning Driver

Q: My 15-year-old daughter is taking driver's education classes this summer. She has been so scared by the videos that show the accidents that she now doesn't want to practice her driving. What should I do?

A: The videos were actually designed to scare teenagers with hopes they would make them drive safe. The realities of driving can be scary and intimidating. Any new driver has to learn the mechanics of driving-what it takes to get the car going and what it takes to get it to stop. This can only be learned by actually driving. Take the time to talk with her. Be realistic and explain consequences of driving recklessly and carelessly. Be reassuring that you have the confidence she will be a good driver and not take chances. After a while, she will feel more confident and want to drive, especially as she sees her peers take on the challenges of the road.

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