Road rage rooted in psychological stress, not just traffic - Expert

Road rage is a by-product of deeper anxieties and unresolved stresses in life.

SHARIFAH SHAHIRAH
SHARIFAH SHAHIRAH
11 Dec 2024 09:05am
Photo for illustration purposes only. - 123RF
Photo for illustration purposes only. - 123RF

SHAH ALAM - Despite the positive impact of technological solutions and the availability of public transport, an expert said the root cause of road rage is not just the traffic or the tools available.

Malaysian Public Transport Users Association (4PAM) president Ajit Johl said road rage was deeply rooted in the psychological stresses of modern life.

"Everyone faces anger and stress in life, it's part of being human. However, in certain circumstances, like on the road, anger can quickly escalate into road rage.

"This issue is increasingly common, especially when our lives are filled with stressors that follow us onto the road. Imagine leaving home in a foul mood, only to be held up by a slow driver while running late.

"It’s easy for frustration to build in such situations, leading to anxiety and ultimately anger," he told Sinar Daily during a Fireside Chat interview, recently.

He also acknowledged the positive role that technology can play in managing such stress.

Ajit explained that today’s technology, such as navigation apps like Waze, provided a practical solution to reduce road stress.

He highlighted that traffic anxiety often arose from the uncertainty of delays, which can significantly increase stress levels.

For those struggling with anger management, Ajit suggested that public transportation could offer a more peaceful alternative.

"Instead of dealing with traffic, riders can sit back, play a game, scroll through social media, or even catch up on work.

"This freedom can help reduce impatience and frustration," he highlighted.

Ajit further emphasised that road rage was a by-product of deeper anxieties and unresolved stresses in life.

He stressed that the root causes varied, they may be financial issues, work stress or personal problems.

He added that it was unlikely anyone drove with the intention to lash out. Rather, road rage was often the result of accumulated unresolved issues.

Ajit noted that road rage was not exclusive to any one group, as it can affect anyone facing heightened anxiety whether it was a mother rushing home to cook for her children, a worker stressed about reaching to an appointment, or anyone managing personal challenges.

He said weather and traffic can also contribute to anxiety, especially with unpredictable conditions.

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