The question of car driving within couples still raises numerous debates today. Long considered a male prerogativeis the place behind the wheel changing? Let's dive into the twists and turns of stereotypes and reality to better understand the dynamics at work in this area.
Historical heritage: when the car rhymes with masculinity
The history of the automobile in France is closely linked to that of female emancipation. At the beginning of the 20th century, while women were confined to the domestic sphere, men appropriated this new means of transport. This distribution of roles has long been reflected in the figures:
- 1924: only 3% of licenses issued to women
- 1932: this figure reached 10%
- 1939: 15% on the eve of the Second World War
- 1967: 22% of women hold a license, compared to 65% of men
The Second World War marked a turning point, with the massive entry of women into the world of work. But it was only after the war, with the democratization of the automobilethat the proportion of female drivers has really increased. In 1993, women finally reached the license holding rate that men had in 1967 (65%).
Differences persist: between education and biology
Even today, gaps remain between men and women behind the wheel. In 2018, the driving license pass rate was 53.4% for women, compared to 62.7% for men. These differences can be explained by several factors:
1. Gendered education : From childhood, boys are more often encouraged to play with toy cars, thereby developing an early interest in automobiles.
2. The relationship with the rules : According to Jean-Pascal Assailly, a developmental psychologist, parents tend to be more permissive with boys regarding risk-taking, which is later reflected in their driving behavior.
3. Self-confidence : Men generally have greater confidence in their driving abilities, which can sometimes lead to increased risk-taking.
This difference in approach is unfortunately reflected in accident statistics. In 2022, 80% of fatal accidents were caused by men, although the difference in driving exposure between the sexes is relatively small (11,000 km/year for men compared to 10,000 km/year for women).
Within the couple: between habits and questioning
In many heterosexual couples, the distribution of the steering wheel often remains unequal. A study carried out by Béatrice Degraeve and Marie-Axelle Granié reveals that for two thirds of the couples questioned, it is the man who drives when traveling for shopping and vacations.
This dynamic is partly explained by ingrained habits and reproduced family models. As Jérémy, 29, points out: “I always saw my father driving. Even when he was tired, he was the one driving. It's the same with my girlfriend's parents, so it's a bit ingrained in us. »
However, these traditional patterns are increasingly being called into question. Some couples seek to balance the distribution of the steering wheel, while other women claim their autonomy in matters of driving. The evolution of mentalities suggests a possible equalization of behaviors driving between men and women.
| Aspect | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Self-confidence | High | Moderate |
| Compliance with the rules | Variable | Pupil |
| Risk taking | More common | Less common |
Towards more peaceful driving for all
Changing mentalities and challenging gender stereotypes are paving the way for a new approach to driving. Experts agree on the need tocalm the behavior of all usersparticularly that of men.
Marie-Axelle Granié suggests working on the excessive self-confidence of men behind the wheel, while preserving the natural caution of women. This approach could help reduce risky behavior on the road and improve road safety for all.
Awareness campaigns and changing social norms play a crucial role in this transformation. Since the beginning of the 2000s, the number of road deaths has almost been halved in France, demonstrating collective awareness.
While the roads continue to be very busy, particularly during major vacation trips, it is essential to continue efforts for more responsible and egalitarian driving. The automobile industry itself is evolving, with brands like Peugeot remaining popular with French people, men and women alike.
Ultimately, the question of driving as a couple goes far beyond simply sharing the wheel. It reflects ongoing societal developments and invites everyone to rethink their behavior on the road, for safer and fairer mobility.
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