Anger, neuroticism, type A behaviour and the experience of angina

The relationship of personality factors to self-reported variations in symptoms of angina pectoris and their impact on functioning was examined in a sample of 50 cardiac patients. The frequency of anginal pains was significantly correlated with trait anger. The degree of perceived interference of angina with daily activities was related to Type A behaviour, anger and neuroticism. However, only neuroticism was related to the tendency to avoid activities because of the possibility of angina. Results are discussed in terms of the role of psychological factors in the manifestation and management of angina.