Road rage is a phenomenon that most drivers encounter while they are commuting or on road trips. The definition of road rage is erratic or aggressive behavior displayed by a driver when involved in a conflict with another driver on the road. The most common cause of road rage is anger, but the causes that trigger that anger can be very complex. Here are some factors that contribute to this type of aggression:
- Stress – having had a stressful day or, even worse, going through a prolonged stressful period can weaken one’s ability to contain anger and the conflict with another driver on the road who is moving too slowly or makes mistakes can trigger episodes of road rage in people who are already on the edge;
- Environmental factors – road obstacles or detours, being redirected and unable to follow the normal itinerary might also trigger rage;
- Personality factors – the tendency to be physically aggressive in other situations might increase the likelihood of engaging into aggressive behavior while driving as well. Highly competitive personalities are also more likely to experience another car going faster as a challenge and if that competition is given too much importance, one or both drivers engaged in the situation might start acting in an erratic or overtly aggressive and irresponsible manner.
If you find yourself getting more angry than you are comfortable with, or if your anger is threatening your relationships, look for a specialized anger management Denver therapist to help provide you with the skills needed to calmly face life stressors.
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