Subscribe now

Mind

Under 18s who drive independently develop a better sense of direction

People who drove by themselves before they turned 18 are better at navigating than those who first drove solo at an older age

By Jason Arunn Murugesu

16 October 2023

Driving alone at a young age may enable you to hone your navigation skills

Thomas Barwick/Getty Images

People who drove by themselves before they were 18 years old have better navigational skills than those who did so at an older age.

A mobile game called Sea Hero Quest has helped scientists to explore our sense of direction. For example, one study found that people who grew up outside cities have better navigation skills than those who spent their childhood in more urban environments.

In the game, players must memorise a map before navigating…

To continue reading, subscribe today with our introductory offers

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 28th October 2023.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account