Type A/B behavior and eight basic emotions in 1084 employees

Psychol Rep. 1995 Jun;76(3 Pt 1):1019-24. doi: 10.2466/pr0.1995.76.3.1019.

Abstract

We examined the prevalence of Type A/B behavior and Emotion Profiles in 1084 employees. This report focused on the relationship between Type A behavior and eight basic emotion dimensions. Of the 1084 subjects 710 (65%) scored as Type A and 374 (34.5%) as Type B. The mean Bortner scores for all subjects were 182.8 (SD = 33.7), scores on emotional dimensions for Incorporation and Reproduction were high, and intensities for Ejection and Destruction were low; mean scores on other emotions were normal. Significant differences between Type A and Type B scores were found on six emotional dimensions. Subjects classified as Type A had ratings lower on trustful, controlled, and timid and higher on aggressive, distrustful, and uncontrolled than did persons classified as Type B. There were no differences between Type A and Type B scores on the emotion dimensions of Reproduction and Deprivation. Our data suggest multiple emotional components may comprise the Type A behavior pattern. This is important for behavioral counseling programs and early preventive efforts which could be aimed at reducing the intensity of Type A behaviors.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Coronary Disease / prevention & control
  • Coronary Disease / psychology*
  • Emotions*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Diseases / prevention & control
  • Occupational Diseases / psychology*
  • Personality Inventory / statistics & numerical data
  • Psychometrics
  • Risk Factors
  • Type A Personality*