Assessment of coronary-prone behavior: A current overview

This paper briefly reviews the historical evolution of the concept of the Type A behavior pattern (TABP) and evidence for its association with clinical coronary heart disease (CHD). Overall, the review suggests that the global TABP is not a reliable predictor of CHD endpoints. However, investigation of various components of the TABP has consistently implicated hostility in the pathogenesis of CHD. Subsequent research has suggested that some facets of hostility may be more 'toxic' than others. Recent attempts have been made to incorporate coronary-prone facets of hostility into a broader theoretical framework of personality, namely the Agreeableness vs. Antagonism domain of the five-factor model of personality. Related refinements in the assessment of hostility are expected to improve prediction of CHD.

Duke Scholars

Author Paul T. Costa Jr. Medicine, Geriatrics and Palliative Care