Occupational stress, suppressed anger, and hypertension
Psychosomatic Medicine
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Suppressed anger intensifies the link between job stress and hypertension in middle-aged men. Managing anger expression may mitigate job stress risks for developing high blood pressure.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Psychosomatic Medicine
- Cardiovascular Epidemiology
Background:
- Job stress is a known risk factor for hypertension.
- The role of anger suppression as a potential modifier in this relationship requires further investigation.
- Understanding psychosocial factors influencing hypertension is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the modifying effect of suppressed anger on the association between job stress and hypertension.
- To explore specific job stressors (job future uncertainty, coworker/promotion dissatisfaction) in relation to hypertension among anger-suppressing individuals.
- To determine if anger expression influences the job stress-hypertension link.
Main Methods:
- Study population: Random sample of male hourly workers (40-63 years) in Pittsburgh, PA.
- Exclusion criteria: Men on antihypertensive medication.
- Analysis: Stratified analyses and logistic regression, controlling for covariates (age, BMI, smoking, alcohol, family history).
Main Results:
- Hypertension was more strongly linked to job future uncertainty and dissatisfaction with coworkers/promotions in men who suppress anger.
- Interactions between suppressed anger and job stress significantly predicted hypertension status.
- Anger suppression emerged as a significant moderator of the job stress-hypertension relationship.
Conclusions:
- Anger expression is a critical factor that may modify the relationship between job stress and hypertension.
- Individuals who suppress anger may be at increased risk of developing hypertension when exposed to job stressors.
- Interventions targeting anger management could be beneficial in preventing hypertension in high-stress work environments.
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