This paper attempts to explain why some drivers are so aggressive to other drivers, and enquires what can be done to rehabilitate such people, who are dangerous to themselves as well as to others. It reviews the research on `road rage', conducted between 1973 and 1994, almost all of which has been concerned with the manifestations, causes, and associated features of aggressive behaviour in car drivers. Almost no research has been done on the various treatment approaches, which could be used to handle the problem and thus reduce accident rates. Twelve psychological factors are listed which cause aggressive driving or are associated with it. Aggressive drivers have more accidents, and are more likely to use alcohol and have longer reaction times. 33% of younger male drivers express aggression, and 19% of older females feel it. Aggression is greater in the afternoon than in the morning. Commercial and business drivers tend to be more aggressive than car drivers. Strategies for handling behaviour related to aggressive driving include: (1) being aware of the problem; (2) wanting to improve one's behaviour to cure the problem; and (3) using a variety of techniques, including relaxation, physical exercise, anger control training, systematic desensitisation, habit breaking, and self-regulation, which have been found helpful.
Abstract