Type A behavior as a general risk factor for physical disorder

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Behavioral Medicine

Background:

• The Type A behavior pattern, defined by competitiveness, impatience, and hostility, has been historically linked to coronary heart disease.
• This study examines Type A behavior as a broader risk factor for diverse physical health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the Type A behavior pattern as a general risk factor for various physical disorders.
• To review research on Type A as a moderator of life stress effects on health.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of studies using objective indicators for Type A behavior and physical health.
• Review of research employing self-report measures for Type A behavior and symptomatology.

Main Results:

• Objective measures show Type A is not a general illness risk factor, except for increased likelihood of accidents, death from accidents/violence, and cerebrovascular/peripheral atherosclerosis.
• Self-report measures reveal a consistent association between Type A behavior and numerous minor illnesses and symptoms.
• Limited evidence supports Type A behavior potentiating the effects of life stress on health.

Conclusions:

• The link between Type A behavior and illness is dependent on the measurement method.
• Objective assessment indicates Type A behavior is specifically associated with certain adverse health outcomes, not general morbidity.
• Self-reported Type A behavior correlates with subjective health complaints, but its role in stress moderation is weak.