Evaluation of cognitive responses to anger-provoking driving situations using the Articulated Thoughts during Simulated Situations procedure

The current study evaluated the utility of using videotaped driving situations to assess angry thoughts while driving using the Articulated Thoughts during Simulated Situations (ATSS) procedure. Ninety-eight undergraduate participants scoring at various levels on the Driving Anger Scale participated in a visual imagery procedure. Results indicated that there were strong situational differences in articulated statements; further, participants higher in driving anger endorsed higher levels of anger and articulated more aggressive statements and fewer anger control statements than did those low in anger. Findings are discussed from the perspective that the ATSS procedure can be effectively used in the assessment and treatment of problematic anger responses while driving.

Research highlights
► Video-based imagery used to evoke cognitive responses in driving scenarios.
► Driving anger predicted anger and aggressive intentions in provoking scenarios.
► Participants lower in driving anger generated constructive ways to cope with anger.
► Driving anger predicted magnification of negative factors in provoking scenarios.