In 1950, Dr. Meyer Friedman, a cardiologist, noted that the armrests in his waiting room were worn down, especially on the front edges as if the patients were literally “sitting on the edge of their seats.” From this observation, Dr. Friedman and his colleague gathered data and concluded that patients with heart disease tend to be intensively driven, workaholic-type individuals. They labeled people with these characteristics “Type A” personalities. Individuals that were more laid back and relaxed were labeled as “Type B.”
Take the following personality test to determine if you lean toward a Type A or Type B personality. Discuss and compare your results with your classmates. Do you think there is a strong link between having either of these personality types, stress, and heart disease? Why or why not?
Scott, E. (2017). The Type A personality quiz. Retrieved February 11, 2019, from https://www.verywellmind.com/the-type-a-personality-quiz-3961031?quizResult=4d7398b5
REQUIRED READING:
Immune System Overview
OpenStax College, Chapter 14. Stress and Illness
Publishing, H. H. (n.d.). Uncovering the link between emotional stress and heart disease. Retrieved September 28, 2017, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/heart-disease-overview/uncovering-the-link-between-emotional-stress-and-heart-disease
Norris, J. (2011, February 03). Aging, Chronic Disease and Telomeres Are Linked in Recent Studies. Retrieved September 28, 2017, from https://www.ucsf.edu/news/2011/02/9353/aging-telomeres-linked-chronic-disease-and-health
