Road Rage Published Aug. 17, 2009 By Jonathan Hicks 81st Training Wing Public Affairs KEESLE AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Driving in world that is full of busy schedules, in a financial crisis, high unemployment and a growing population has made tension, anger and stress a part of everyday life for today's driver. These factors and many more similar life stressors have created a driving phenomenon commonly known as "road rage." According to the AAA Foundation for Road Safety Research, "road rage" is a term believed to have originated in the United States and involves extreme acts of aggression that occurs as a direct result of a disagreement between drivers. It differs from the normal frustration most drivers feel after being "cut off", stuck in traffic, or on the receiving end of another drivers' bad intentions or gestures. The distinction between the two is, in "normal" driving behavior between drivers no violence occurs and there's no physical confrontation or altercation. A case study done by the foundation discovered road rage goes beyond just bad attitudes meeting with even worse driving habits. Psychologists explained that human beings are territorial and as individuals, all have a personal space or territory. This is essentially a defense mechanism, and if anyone or anything invades this territory, it's considered a potential threat. A car is an extension of that territory. Lt. Col Jay Stone, a clinical psychologist in the 81st Medical Operations Squadron's mental health flight at Keesler points out, "People often have a false sense of security in a car and they may act in a manner they normally wouldn't have." The foundation's study also revealed that one of the main factors influencing driver behavior was mood. It suggested that for many people, driving is regarded as an expressive, rather than practical activity. Those who regarded driving this way tend to react negatively to the actions of other drivers and were more likely to get wound up about those actions they deem inappropriate or stupid. Colonel Stone points out helpful tips to protect ourselves against a driver who is experiencing road rage. "Be as courteous as possible," he recommends. "Don't respond to any gestures. Don't make eye contact with the other driver. If somebody begins to follow you, drive to the nearest police station." Although studies find evidence that some drivers are more likely than others to succumb to road rage, don't assume that this behavior can't be altered. All drivers can although take approaches to employ strategies to keep frustration, anger and rage in check. To avoid getting road rage, Colonel Stone suggests, "The main thing is to know yourself. If you feel your mood is not safe for driving, use distraction. Take a walk. Listen to some soothing music. Give yourself plenty of time to arrive at your destination. "Road rage is usually just an outward symptom of other issues such as anger management, depression, as well as several possible unhealthy triggers," the colonel continued. For people who think they have an issue with anger and would like help, Colonel Stone suggests, "There's an anger management program provided through family advocacy that's a really great way to deal with anger issues." The class meets four sessions every Tuesday. The sessions are available to any identification card holder, and a new class begins every month. For more information on the anger management program, call family advocacy, 376-3457.