Rlchard Pettlnger

Personality types

In the 1970s and 1980s, key medical research was linking behavior (including organizational behavior and the behavior of individuals at work) with stress, and identified heart disease as a major output of prolonged endurance of high levels of stress. These studies identified two personality types, which they called Type A and Type B.

Type As were identified as being action and results oriented, and in a hurry to complete work and move on to the next task. Type As tended to work faster and harder than Type Bs.

Type Bs were identified as being calm and unruffled. They rarely demonstrated high levels of emotion even in a crisis or emergency.

However, it is important to note that:

» Type As tended towards work and occupational overload. They were much more likely to take on too much work. They exhibited greater signs of stress. They were much more likely to experience conflict and to become sidetracked into non-essential tasks and activities. While they overtly worked harder than Type Bs, they were not necessarily as effective. Also, it became apparent that effort alone did not always bring additional rewards or promotions. Moreover, for Type As other opportunities were limited, except in terms of expanding and extending their existing job or position.

» Type Bs tended to reach the most senior positions in organizations. This was because they were calmer, and more ordered and strategic in approach. They did not confuse action and energy expenditure with effectiveness. They were also found to be much less prone to loss of reputation through open engagement in conflict; or more seriously, occupational and other health problems such as coronary heart disease.

The studies also found that Type A managers were much more likely to smoke, and to have higher blood pressure and cholesterol levels than Type Bs.

However, it is clear that both types have advantages and shortcom- ings. Type As tend to excel on tasks that have to be completed under time and resource pressures, and to become impatient with those who block them or hold them up. They exhibit ambition, drive, enthusiasm, and commitment. They also clearly expect and anticipate promotions,

EVOLUTION OF STRESS AND STRESS MANAGEMENT 21
These responses typify the

Type A behavior pattern.

These responses typify the Type B behavior pattern