Type A Behavior and Occupational Stress

Abstract

Studies of the Type A Behavior pattern in a work context are reviewed in terms of a casual model relating Type A to coronary heart disease. Research supports the hypothesis that Type A's are hyper-responsive to subjective work stressors. However, examination of objective stressors is rare. Furthermore, causal connections between Type A and objective and subjective work environments are consistent with laboratory research, but field studies have yet to provide convincing support for them. Gaps in the empirical literature are delineated and methodological recommendations are made. It is argued that understanding the causal mechanisms by which Type A leads to heart disease has its implications for the adoption of treatment strategies, and that the occupational context provides a promising setting for studying these mechanisms.