What can we detect about such incidents?
Some experts say the trend began decades ago when people became resistant to traditional values and manners. Others blame fast-paced modern lifestyles for contributing to a society that has little time to be polite. This is particularly true in big cities, where people are surrounded by strangers. As a noted psychologist has observed, "In a small town, the person to whom you are rude is more likely to be someone you are going to see again tomorrow." In the city, if you have a minor conflict, it's very unlikely you will ever encounter that person again. Stress also plays a role in incidents of ignorant behavior. Cindy Kludt, a counselor who works with overworked nurses, says rudeness in hospitals corresponds with the stress of people constantly working under life-and-death circumstances.