Specific Aims: The specific aims are to: (1) identify the types of violence experienced by long-haul truck drivers; (2) identify risk factors that contribute to the violence; (3) differentiate the risks of work-related stress among distinct socio-demographic groups of truckers; (4) determine the prevalence of domestic violence experienced by long-haul truck drivers; and (5) identify work environment factors that place truck drivers’ at risk.

Sample: A cross-sectional quantitative survey will be conducted with a non-probability sample (N = 1400) recruited at truck shows and truck stops across the U.S.

Data Collection: Data will be collected on violence-related variables (e.g. harassment, weapons, assault, rape, robbery, worksite security, fatigue, psychological strain, and substance abuse). Qualitative data on violence at the worksite will be collected via phone interviews (30 female and 30 male participants).

Data Analysis: Dependent on the specific aim, bivariate relationships, logistic regression, discriminant analysis, Cronbach’s alpha, and ANCOVA will be used. Constant-comparative methods and content analysis matrices will be used to describe, analyze, and interpret the qualitative data.

Preliminary Findings: Thus far, 291 males and 74 females have completed surveys. Women were more likely to drive with a partner, were more likely to fear personal safety at work, and were more likely to be sexually assaulted than were their male counterparts. Differences between female and male drivers have not been noted in their experiences of road rage, threats of violence while driving, harassment, robbery and physical assault.

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Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004