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Assessing the relationship between a multidimensional psychological "control profile" and cardiovascular risk
D H Shapiro1, J Lindberg, J M Daniels
1Department of Psychiatry and Human Behavior, University of California, Irvine.
International Journal of Psychosomatics : Official Publication of the International Psychosomatics Institute
|January 1, 1994
Summary
This study reveals that a low sense of personal control is linked to increased cardiovascular risk. A new multidimensional tool, the Shapiro Control Inventory (SCI), identified specific control dimensions correlating with health risks.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Cardiovascular Health
- Health Psychology
Background:
- Conflicting literature exists on the link between personal control and cardiovascular risk.
- Previous research often used a unidimensional view of control, limiting understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between multidimensional perceived control and cardiovascular risk.
- To introduce and utilize the Shapiro Control Inventory (SCI) for precise measurement.
Main Methods:
- Administered the Shapiro Control Inventory (SCI) to twenty individuals during their annual physicals.
- Analyzed associations between SCI domains and specific cardiovascular risk parameters.
Main Results:
- Lower perceived control on domain-specific scales correlated with higher cardiovascular risk.
- Specific dimensions of control were significantly associated with smoking, dietary fat intake, blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol.
- Case studies of high-risk individuals suggested distinct control profiles linked to risk.
Conclusions:
- A multidimensional approach to perceived control is crucial for understanding cardiovascular risk.
- The SCI is a valuable tool for assessing control dimensions and their health implications.
- Future research should further explore the nuanced relationship between control profiles and cardiovascular health.