This paper analyses `aggression in traffic' using a conceptual framework. The paper presents a taxonomy of aggressive traffic behaviour. The origin of aggressive behaviour lies in the "norm conflict" between road users. Aggressive reactions and causes of this behaviour are related to each other, according to the "norm conflict model". The paper relates the appreciation of aggressive behaviour to: (1) the social desirability of the conflicting norm; and (2) the social acceptability of how aggressive reactions appear. However, the aggression problem in traffic should be put into perspective. Sometimes, aggression in traffic is observed as a behavioural problem, while it has more to do with "norm exceeding behaviour". It appears that not all aggressive traffic behaviour can be considered merely as undesirable. Socially acceptable aggressive reactions to socially undesirable exceedings of the norm can make a positive contribution to changes in traffic behaviour. Additionally, there is more reason to accept that aggression in traffic should be considered as a decreasing than as an increasing phenomenon. A preliminary strategy is recommended that should not be aimed directly at aggressive behaviours themselves, but at the causes of these behaviours.
Abstract