Type A behavior pattern: new perspectives on theory, assessment, and intervention.

Abstract

Research on the Type A behavior pattern (TA) has been plagued by inadequate theory, insensitive assessment, and insufficient interventions. These problems (e.g., using global dichotomous ratings of TA) have contributed to several failures of TA to predict cardiovascular outcomes prompting concern for new approaches. Conceptual models are discussed, such as a transactional model of TA, social cognitive theories (e.g., self-evaluative processes), and associative network theory (e.g., how emotions distort information). The view of hostility as the only pathogenic feature of TA is questioned. The ethnographic gap in TA research is described, and detailed descriptive and experimental case studies are recommended. Profile measures that assess all dimensions of TA are urged along with contextually sensitive multimodal assessments. Unlike results of some correlational studies, controlled TA interventions, although few, have consistently yielded positive results. Study of TA within an expanded conceptual perspective is encouraged, especially controlled experiments and interventions.