The never-ending morning rush, the squeeze with what feels like half the population, and the constant need to be somewhere, are all common experiences of being a driver in the city. Given these circumstances, in addition to daily life’s stresses, it is no surprise that a seemingly trivial incident of being cut off or stuck in traffic would be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. In this article, we look at some possible reasons why people might be more susceptible to road rage and more impulsive on the roads.
Driving during peak hour can be a stressful experience. At times, one may be surprised by how being on the roads can make the gentlest and calmest soul turn red with fury. It is not uncommon for some to be taken aback at their own responses when they become more aware of this growing rage while they drive. The following are some of the many possible reasons for one to fall into road rage and potentially dangerous and reckless driving.
Displaced Anger
Displacement is a process where one’s anger is redirected from the original source, often someone perceived as more powerful, to a safer and more acceptable target. The unresolved anger and frustration one holds from different areas of their lives can be conveniently redirected to others on the road. For example, someone who was scolded by their superiors at work may not be able to express their grievances at work. The pent-up frustration may then be unleashed when they are met with minor inconveniences or perceived mistakes made by others.
Projections and Unconscious Expectations
For some, road rage might be a manifestation of unconscious expectations and projections. Some individuals carry deep-seated feelings of being wronged or taken advantage of, which they unconsciously project onto other drivers. The road becomes a stage where these unresolved feelings play out. A driver might perceive another's actions not just as bad driving but as a personal attack, a representation of their unconscious belief that people will exploit or disrespect them. This can trigger a defensive and aggressive response as a way to reclaim perceived lost power or control and restore one’s sense of self-worth.
Perceived Safe Space
Being in the comfort of one’s vehicle, creates a sense of safety and anonymity. The individual may feel more empowered to express their anger without the fear of immediate repercussion or judgement. Furthermore, it may allow one to feel more at ease and less in need to control or suppress their angst and annoyances.
Limited Capacity for Self-Control
Controlling and regulating oneself throughout the day takes mental capacity and strength. Many drivers are expected to be in full control of their emotions and how they present to others throughout the day. Despite whatever life stresses they may have—financial, relationship, career, or perhaps family— one is expected to perform professionally in their work or the roles that they play. As such, when one’s capacity for self-control becomes eroded through the day, they may become more susceptible to road rage and more impulsive when met with seemingly trivial incidents on the road.
Limited Emotion Regulation Skills
Effective emotional regulation is crucial for managing anger, but not everyone has developed these skills to the same extent. Individuals with poor emotional regulation are more likely to experience intense and frequent episodes of anger. On the road, this manifests as road rage, where the inability to manage and diffuse anger leads to aggressive driving behaviours.
Alcohol and Substance Use
The role of alcohol and substances in road rage cannot be overlooked. These substances impair judgement, lower inhibitions, and increase aggression. Under the influence, a driver may misinterpret benign actions of others as hostile and respond disproportionately. As such, when normal cognitive processes are impacted, the reduced ability to self-regulate can lead to an increase in the likelihood of engaging in aggressive behaviours.
Road rage is more than just a reaction to the frustrations of driving; it is a complex interplay of psychological factors deeply rooted in the human psyche. By understanding these underlying dynamics, we can better address the causes of road rage, learn strategies that enhance emotional regulation and reduce stress, ultimately leading to safer and more harmonious driving experiences.