Many drivers have experienced what is known as road rage syndrome . When they suffer a mishap in the car, even a minor one, such as a traffic jam or a small friction, they manifest a feeling of progressive anger that can lead them to lose control. The violence that its protagonists sometimes display, from insults to physical attacks, surprises even them, since they are often peaceful individuals who never lose their temper in this way. But why does it happen to them when they drive?
There are certain personality traits that are accentuated by traffic stress. Temple University in Philadelphia conducted research showing that certain individuals were more prone to these types of seizures. Apparently, those with a tendency to be competitive and to display their status lose their roles more easily . The same thing happens with the most narcissistic, who tend to break common rules because they believe they are above others and have little patience with the mistakes of others.
The same study found that men tend to be more aggressive drivers. In addition, people feel less observed in their car and can thus yell and insult without suffering public censure. Also, it is easier to lose empathy because it is easy to dehumanize other drivers .
Image: State Farm via Flickr / CC
