Research Papers (2009 – 2013)

Abstract

This study investigated how differences in a belief in an unjust world (BUJW) and narcissism are related to differences in attributions of justice, driving anger, and retaliatory aggressive driving. Based on the General Aggression Model, a model of retaliatory aggressive driving was developed and tested. Results indicated that the General Aggression Model is useful in predicting driver aggression.

One hundred and fifty-seven undergraduate participants completed an Internet-based survey composed of measures of unjust world beliefs and narcissism, and viewed an animated video clip of a driving situation involving an unjust driving behaviour. Injustice attributions, as well affective and behavioural reactions to the unjust driving behaviours were assessed after viewing the video clip.

Path analysis results identified an important pathway that led from individual differences (i.e., BUJW) to internal states (i.e., attributions and anger) to retaliatory driving aggression. The current study has provides support for the use of the General Aggression Model for studying aggressive driving, and provides important information about previously unexamined variables and driving aggression. The pathway identified in this study should be examined in greater detail, with the intention of incorporating the findings into driving education programs with the ultimate intention of reducing aggressive driving and resulting in safer roadways.

James Roseborough, David L. Wiesenthal, Gordon L. Flett, Robert A. Cribbie