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Type A behavior, need for control, and reactions to group participation
Organizational Behavior and Human Performance
|July 10, 1982
Summary
Type A individuals, prone to coronary issues, often emerge as leaders in group problem-solving but offer lower-quality solutions. Their behavior suggests a strong need for control and potential susceptibility to learned helplessness.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Social Psychology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Type A behavior pattern is linked to coronary heart disease.
- Understanding Type A behavior in social and professional settings is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the group problem-solving dynamics of Type A individuals.
- To compare the leadership emergence and performance of Type A and Type B individuals.
Main Methods:
- Subjects were placed in same-sex groups to solve problems.
- Groups included both Type A and Type B individuals.
- Leadership roles, helpfulness, and solution quality were assessed.
Main Results:
- Type A individuals were more frequently identified as leaders.
- Type A leaders' solutions were rated as lower in quality compared to Type B leaders.
- Problem importance and incentives affected both Type A and Type B individuals similarly.
Conclusions:
- Type A behavior in groups may be driven by a need for control.
- Type A individuals might be more prone to learned helplessness.
- Behavioral patterns of Type A individuals warrant further investigation in group contexts.