Driving anger: correlates and a test of state-trait theory

A survey and field study evaluated predictions from state-trait theory appl ied to driving anger. Trait driving anger, the propensity to become angry w hen driving, correlated positively with anger in frequently occurring drivi ng situations and in day-to-day driving and with aggressive and risky behav iors while driving. Although not correlated with crash rates or moving viol ations, trait driving anger correlated with crash-related conditions such a s loss concentration, loss of vehicular control, and close calls. Results g enerally supported predictions from state-trait theory and the construct va lidity of the Driving Anger Scale, as well as mapping correlates of the dis position to become angry while driving. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.