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Effects of driver cell-phone use on driver aggression
Andrew R McGarva1, Matthew Ramsey, Suzannah A Shear
1Department of Teacher Education and Psychology, Dickinson State University, Dickinson, ND 58601, USA. andrew.mcgarva@dsu.nodak.edu
The Journal of Social Psychology
|May 6, 2006
Summary
Cell phone use while driving increases driver aggression. Drivers using cell phones honked more and showed more anger, suggesting a link between mobile device use and road rage.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Traffic Safety
- Human-Computer Interaction
Background:
- Driver aggression is a significant public safety concern.
- The proliferation of mobile phone use has raised questions about its impact on driving behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of cell phone use on mild forms of driver aggression.
- To assess gender differences in responses to cell phone-induced frustration.
Main Methods:
- Two field experiments were conducted with 135 drivers in western North Dakota.
- Participants were videotaped while being frustrated by a confederate driver using a cell phone.
- Aggression was measured by honking frequency and facial expression analysis.
Main Results:
- Male drivers using cell phones honked more quickly and frequently.
- Female drivers using cell phones displayed greater anger via facial expressions.
- Compared to control groups without cell phone use, cell phone users showed increased aggression.
Conclusions:
- Hand-held cell phone use by drivers contributes to increased roadway aggression.
- Cell phone distractions exacerbate aggressive driving behaviors.
- Interventions to reduce driver aggression should address cell phone use.
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