Interactional anxiety and the evaluation of driving skills: An empirical examination of a composite predictor for state anxiety.

Abstract
This study empirically examined the validity of the trait anxiety.sbd.perception (ATP) score, a composite predictor for state anxiety (A-State). The ATP score is constructed from trait anxiety (A-Trait) and situation perception data derived from the Endler Multidimensional Anxiety Scales (EMAS; Endler Edwards, and Vitelli, 1989). ATP mathematically combines the individual''s A-Trait and situation perception profiles and ajusts these with a multiplier which reflects the individual''s sensitivity to particular types of situational elements, in terms of A-State inducement. This investigation focussed on the A-State associated with attempting a driving test, and results indicated that the prediction of A-State based on the ATP score was superior to those provided by social evaluation, physical danger, ambiguous, and daily routines A-Trait. These resultes were discussed in terms of the ATP score''s ability to reflect adequately the underlying theoretical principles of the interaction model of anxiety.

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