Analysis of the moderator role of driving self-esteem in the relationship between general anger and driving anger

Abstract

Global self-esteem has consistently emerged as a robust predictor of various outcomes, including the expression of anger and aggressive behavior, both in general contexts and specifically in driving situations. However, the particular role of driving-specific self-esteem has received limited empirical attention to date. The present study aimed to investigate the moderating role of driving self-esteem in the association between trait general anger and trait driving anger. A sample of 530 Spanish drivers (M_age = 30.55, 67.4% female) completed a series of self-report measures, including the Driving Self-Esteem Questionnaire, the STAXI-2, and the Driving Anger Scale. Findings revealed that driving self-esteem significantly moderated the relationship between trait general anger and all subscales of the Driving Anger Scale, with the exception of the Police Presence factor. Specifically, when trait general anger was elevated, higher levels of both positive and, more notably, negative driving self-esteem amplified the association with trait driving anger. Conversely, lower levels of both positive and negative driving self-esteem appeared to attenuate the impact of high trait general anger on driving-related anger, except in the context of slow driving. These results highlight the potential utility of developing targeted interventions addressing driving self-esteem to mitigate driving anger, even among individuals predisposed to experience anger more broadly. Finally, the theoretical implications of the results are also highlighted.