Trait anger causes risky driving behavior by influencing executive function and hazard cognition

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Traffic Safety
• Behavioral Science

Background:

• Trait anger is linked to increased risky driving and collisions.
• The detailed mechanisms, including executive function and hazard cognition, remain unclear.
• Previous research suggests a potential mediation role for executive function and hazard cognition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the relationships between trait anger, executive function, hazard cognition, and risky driving behavior.
• To test a multiple mediation model examining how these factors interact.
• To provide a theoretical framework for aggressive driving behavior.

Main Methods:

• 302 participants completed online questionnaires assessing trait anger, executive function, hazard cognition, and driving behavior.
• Hierarchical multiple linear regression analyzed risky driving behavior.
• Zero-inflated Poisson regression analyzed self-reported traffic violations (accidents, fines, penalty points).

Main Results:

• Trait anger and hazard cognition significantly predicted risky driving behavior.
• Executive function did not directly predict risky driving behavior.
• Trait anger negatively predicted accidents and fines; hazard cognition negatively predicted penalty points; executive function negatively predicted penalty points and fines.

Conclusions:

• Trait anger influences risky driving behavior through both executive function and hazard cognition, acting separately and jointly.
• Findings support a transactional model of aggressive driving.
• This research offers insights for interventions targeting trait anger's impact on risky driving.