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Impact of stress on A and B personality types

Abdul Rehman

Department of Sociology University of Karachi

Soc-521: Research Methodology

Dr. Nabeel

June 12 2023
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Impact of stress on A and B personality types

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the relationship between stress and personality types A and B.

The problem at hand is to understand how stress influences individuals with different

personality traits. The main objective is to determine whether there is a significant difference in

stress levels experienced by individuals with personality types A and B. The study will employ

the questionnaire developed by Dr. Howard Glazer to collect data on stress and personality

types. The collected data will be analyzed using the chi-square method to examine any potential

associations between stress and personality types A and B. The findings of this research will

contribute to a deeper understanding of how stress affects individuals with different personality

characteristics.
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Introduction

Stress is a ubiquitous phenomenon that affects individuals across various aspects of their lives,

from personal well-being to professional performance. It is well-established that stress can have

significant implications for physical and mental health, highlighting the need for a

comprehensive understanding of its underlying mechanisms and influences. Within the realm of

stress research, an important area of investigation focuses on the relationship between stress and

personality traits, specifically personality types A and B.

The main problem addressed in this study is to unravel how stress influences individuals with

different personality traits. Personality types A and B have been widely recognized and studied

as distinct categories representing contrasting behavioral and psychological characteristics.

Personality type A is typically associated with traits such as competitiveness, ambition, and a

sense of urgency, while personality type B is characterized by a more relaxed, easygoing, and

less time-pressured approach to life. Understanding how stress interacts with these personality

types can provide valuable insights into the differential responses and coping strategies

employed by individuals in stressful situations.

The significance of investigating the relationship between stress and personality types A and B

extends beyond individual well-being. This research holds relevance for multiple stakeholders,

including the scientific community, mental health practitioners, and organizations concerned

with employee performance and well-being. By shedding light on how stress affects individuals

with distinct personality characteristics, this study contributes to a deeper understanding of the
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underlying mechanisms of stress and can inform the development of targeted interventions and

strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of stress.

To address this research problem, the study will employ the questionnaire developed by Dr.

Howard Glazer, a widely recognized tool for assessing stress and categorizing individuals into

personality types A and B. This questionnaire enables the collection of data on stress levels and

provides a comprehensive assessment of personality traits. By utilizing this validated

instrument, the study ensures the reliability and validity of the collected data.

The collected data will be subjected to statistical analysis using the chi-square method. The chi-

square test is a widely accepted statistical technique that allows for the examination of

associations between categorical variables, making it suitable for exploring potential

relationships between stress levels and personality types A and B.

The findings of this research will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on stress and

personality, providing empirical evidence regarding the differential experiences of stress among

individuals with personality types A and B. Furthermore, the research findings can have practical

implications by informing the development of targeted interventions and strategies to

effectively manage stress and promote well-being tailored to individuals' specific personality

profiles.

In summary, this study aims to investigate the relationship between stress and personality types

A and B, addressing the problem of understanding how stress influences individuals with

different personality traits. By employing the questionnaire developed by Dr. Howard Glazer and

utilizing the chi-square method for data analysis, this research aims to contribute to a deeper
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understanding of the interactions between stress and personality characteristics. The relevance

of this study extends to various stakeholders, including the scientific community, mental health

practitioners, and organizations concerned with employee well-being.

Literature review

Personality, according to (George, 1992), is the enduring ways a person has of feeling, thinking,

and behaving, is the first determinant of how people think and feel about their jobs or job

satisfaction. Numerous studies examined the role of personality and its interaction with

situational demands to the perceived stress and ways of coping with stress (costa, somerfield, &

McCrae, 1986) . There are two personality types, type A and type B . Type A/B behavior pattern

is a behavioral trait (Spector, 1994) referring to how one responds to environmental challenges

and threats (Ivencevich, 1984). Type A individuals respond in ways characterized as aggressive,

achievement oriented, dynamic, hard driving, assertive, fast paced (in eating, walking, and

talking), impatient, competitive, ambitious, irritated, angry, hostile, and under time pressures

(Cooper, Kirkcaldy, & Brown, 1993).

Type A develop coronary heart disease (Friedman, 1967; Schaubroeck, Ganster, & Kemmerer,

1994) and experience more stressors and strains (Jamal, 1999; Sharpley, Dua, Reynolds, &

Acosta, 1995) than Type Bs.

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The hostility and irritability components of Type A behavior (reflect in anger, and an obsession

with time) have been most often linked to stress related illnesses. (Spence, Helmreich, & pred,

1987) found that impatience and irritability, but not achievement strivings, were positively

correlated with somatic self-complaints. They argue that it is highly unlikely that the same

components of the Type A behavior pattern are responsible for both vocational excellence and

stress-related health problems. Additional studies (Bluer, 1990; Matthews, 1988; Robbins, et al.,

1991) show that certain Type A traits like anger, impatience, and irritability are more likely to

lead to stress-related health problems than achievement strivings.

On the other hand, Type Bs are open to criticism and they try to make others feel accepted and

at ease and so they are more satisfied with their jobs. When they are angry, they use humour

subtly to make their point, but they are angry about the issue not the person. They can be more

accepting of emotions and tend to go with the mood at the moment. They are supportive of

others and are more likely to express positive feelings and be more satisfied with their jobs

(Kirkcaldy et al., 2002). Type B individuals are casual, easygoing, and never in a rush to get

things done (Bortner, 1969). People’s values, attitudes, abilities, and emotion vary. This is

probably because of the differences in personality. Personality is defined as the combination of

stable physical and mental characteristics that gives the individual his or her uniqueness. These

characteristics or traits, including how one looks, acts, and feels are the products of interacting

genetic and environmental influences. (Afolabi, 2011) Type A is one of the few personality

characteristics that has been previously studied in relation to WFC. Individuals who exhibit Type

A behavior are characterized as being ambitious, competitive, impatient, and aggressive or

hostile. Individuals lacking these characteristics are relaxed and patient, and are referred to as
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Type B (Spence, Helmreich, &Pred, 1987). Type A individuals experience a keen sense of time

urgency, are more likely to be involved in conflict with coworkers, more overloaded at work, and

more likely to be overcommitted than Type B individuals (Baron, 1989; Jamal & Baba, 1991;

Strube, 1991).According to the study of Bruck et al...Type A behavior would be more likely to

relate to WFC than would the achievement striving dimension.

Objectives

1. To investigate the impact of stress on individuals with different personality types.

2. To examine the differences in reactions of individuals to stress.

3. To assess and compare the levels of stress experienced by individuals with personality

type A and those with personality type B.

4. To examine the relationship between specific components of personality type A (e.g.,

aggression, impatience) and their susceptibility to stress.

5. To examine the differences in reactions of individuals to stress.

Hypothesis

There will be a significant difference in the levels of stress experienced by individuals with

personality types A and B. Specifically, individuals with personality type A will exhibit higher
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stress levels compared to individuals with personality type B. Furthermore, it is hypothesized

that the specific components of personality type A will be positively associated with increased

susceptibility to stress. On the other hand, individuals with personality type B, known for their

acceptance, supportiveness, and more relaxed approach, will demonstrate lower stress levels

and higher job satisfaction, indicating a buffering effect against stress.

Limitations

1. Self-Report Bias: The data collected on personality types and stress levels rely on self-

report measures, which are subjective and prone to biases. Participants may provide

responses that align with societal expectations or may not accurately recall or report

their stress experiences, leading to potential measurement inaccuracies and bias.

2. Limited Scope of Personality Traits: The study focuses specifically on personality types A

and B and certain associated traits. However, personality is a multifaceted construct, and

other relevant personality traits that are not considered in this study may also influence

the relationship between stress and personality types.

Methodology

Research Design: This study employs a cross-sectional research design to examine the

relationship between stress and personality types A and B. A cross-sectional design

allows for the collection of data at a single point in time, enabling the assessment of

stress levels and personality types simultaneously.

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Participants: The participants in this study will be selected through a convenience

sampling method. The sample will consist of individuals from various backgrounds and

occupations. Inclusion criteria will include individuals aged 18 to 60 years who are

currently employed. Efforts will be made to ensure a diverse range of personality types A

and B within the sample.

Data Collection: Data will be collected through self-report measures. Participants will

complete a structured questionnaire that includes validated scales to assess personality

types A and B, stress levels, and specific personality traits associated with each type. The

questionnaire will be conducted physically.

Data Analysis: The collected data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

The Chi-square method will be used to test the validity of the hypothesis.

Ethical Considerations: This study will adhere to ethical guidelines. Participants'

informed consent will be obtained before their participation, ensuring anonymity,

confidentiality, and voluntary participation. Steps will be taken to protect participants'

privacy and ensure data security.

By following this methodology, the study aims to gather reliable and valid data to

explore the relationship between stress and personality types A and B.

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Results

Research Objective: The main objective of the study was to examine the impact of

stress on individuals with different personality traits. The focus was on understanding

how different personality types respond to and are affected by stressors.

The research findings indicate that stress has a significant impact on individuals with different

personality traits. The A1 personality type showed the highest stress levels and displayed

behaviors associated with high stress reactivity. The A2 and AB personality types demonstrated

moderate stress levels, while the B1 and B2 personality types exhibited low stress levels and a

more relaxed response to stress. These results suggest that individuals with different personality

traits may vary in their susceptibility to stress and their coping mechanisms when faced with

stressors.
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To visually represent the data, a graph illustrating the stress levels across different

personality types can be found below:

Respondents O1 O2 O3 O4 O5 O6 O7

R1 5 0 3 4 2 4 0

R2 4 4 0 1 0 5 5

R3 0 2 3 3 6 5 0

R4 1 3 1 3 2 5 2

R5 0 0 1 3 9 6 0

R6 0 1 0 1 1 6 10

R7 1 0 1 0 4 4 9

R8 3 2 1 0 2 3 8

R9 1 4 2 3 1 5 3

R10 5 2 3 2 3 2 2

Total 20 18 15 20 30 45 39
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Sample Selection: Convenience sampling was used to select a sample of ten individuals

for the study. It's important to note that convenience sampling may introduce bias and

limit the generalizability of the findings. Therefore, caution should be exercised when

interpreting the results.

Personality Types: The study categorized individuals into five main personality types:

A1, A2, AB, B1 and B2. Each personality type exhibited distinct characteristics and

behaviors in response to stress.

A1 Personality Type: Individuals classified as A1 personality types displayed high levels

of stress. They demonstrated several characteristics, including promptly finishing their

work, never being late for appointments, high competitiveness, always being in a hurry,

and holding their feelings in. These behaviors suggest that individuals with the A1

personality type have a strong response to stress and may experience higher stress

levels compared to other personality types.

A2 Personality Type: The A2 personality types also experienced stress, although the

intensity was lower compared to A1. Similar to the A1 type, they exhibited behaviors

such as promptly finishing their work, but with less intensity. They were moderately

competitive and showed a lower frequency of being late for appointments. This
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suggests that individuals with the A2 personality type are still affected by stress but to a

lesser degree compared to A1.

AB Personality Type: Individuals classified as AB personality types demonstrated

moderate levels of stress. Their behaviors and responses to stress were similar to both

A1 and A2, but with a moderate intensity. This suggests that individuals with AB

personality types may experience moderate stress levels and exhibit behaviors

associated with stress, although not as strongly as the A1 personality type.

B1 Personality Type: The B1 personality type exhibited low levels of stress. They were

characterized as calm and unhurried about appointments, not highly competitive, and

had a slower pace of work. These individuals appeared to be less affected by stress

compared to the A and AB personality types. Their relaxed demeanor and lower stress

levels suggest that individuals with the B1 personality type may have better coping

mechanisms or may be less prone to experiencing high levels of stress.

B2 Personality Type: The B2 personality type displayed similar patterns to B1 but with a

lower intensity. They experienced low levels of stress and exhibited behaviors that were

closer to the AB personality type. Individuals with the B2 personality type demonstrated

relatively low stress reactivity, like the B1 personality type.

The research findings indicate that stress has a significant impact on individuals with

different personality traits. The A1 personality type showed the highest stress levels and
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displayed behaviors associated with high stress reactivity. The A2 and AB personality

types demonstrated moderate stress levels, while the B1 and B2 personality types

exhibited low stress levels and a more relaxed response to stress. These results suggest

that individuals with different personality traits may vary in their susceptibility to stress

and their coping mechanisms when faced with stressors.

Discussions

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of stress on individuals with different

personality traits. The results shed light on how individuals with varying personality

types respond to and are affected by stressors. The findings highlight significant

differences in stress levels and behaviors across different personality types, providing

valuable insights into the relationship between stress and personality.

The study employed convenience sampling, which involved selecting a sample of ten

individuals. While convenience sampling is convenient to implement, it is important to

acknowledge its limitations, such as potential sampling bias and reduced generalizability

of the findings. Therefore, caution should be exercised when interpreting the results,

and further research with larger and more diverse samples would be beneficial for a

more comprehensive understanding of the topic.

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The analysis of the collected data categorized individuals into four main personality

types: A1, A2, AB, and B1/B2. These personality types exhibited distinct characteristics

and behaviors in response to stress, which varied in intensity.

The A1 personality type demonstrated high levels of stress. Individuals with this

personality type displayed behaviors such as promptly finishing their work, never being

late for appointments, high competitiveness, always being in a hurry, and holding their

feelings in. These traits suggest a strong response to stress and potentially elevated

stress levels compared to other personality types. Individuals with the A1 personality

type may be highly driven and motivated, but the resulting stress could potentially

impact their well-being and overall functioning.

The A2 personality type experienced stress as well, albeit with a lower intensity

compared to A1. These individuals also exhibited behaviors associated with stress,

including prompt work completion, but with less intensity. They displayed moderate

competitiveness and showed a lower frequency of being late for appointments. The

findings suggest that individuals with the A2 personality type are affected by stress but

to a lesser degree compared to those with the A1 personality type. It is important to

note that this group may still experience stress-related challenges, although they may

exhibit more adaptive coping mechanisms or possess greater resilience.

Individuals classified as AB personality types demonstrated moderate levels of stress.

Their behaviors and responses to stress were similar to both the A1 and A2 types but
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with a moderate intensity. This suggests that individuals with AB personality types may

experience moderate stress levels and exhibit behaviors associated with stress. They may

possess a combination of traits and responses from both the A and B personality types,

indicating a more nuanced reaction to stressors.

The B1 personality type exhibited low levels of stress. These individuals demonstrated

calmness and an unhurried approach to appointments. They were not highly

competitive and displayed a slower pace of work. The findings suggest that individuals

with the B1 personality type are less affected by stress compared to the A and AB

personality types. They may have effective coping mechanisms in place, enabling them

to manage stressors more efficiently. Their ability to remain composed and relaxed in

stressful situations may contribute to their overall well-being.

The B2 personality type displayed similar patterns to B1 but with a lower intensity. These

individuals experienced low levels of stress and exhibited behaviors closer to the AB

personality type. They demonstrated relatively low stress reactivity, which suggests a

lower susceptibility to stress compared to other personality types. It is important to note

that while individuals with the B2 personality type may experience stress, it is likely to be

less intense and have a lesser impact on their overall functioning.

Overall, the results of the study provide valuable insights into the impact of stress on

individuals with different personality traits. The findings highlight significant variations in

stress levels and behaviors across personality types, indicating that individuals'
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responses to stress are influenced by their unique personality characteristics. The study

contributes to our understanding of how different individuals cope with stress and how

their personality traits may moderate the stress response.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of the study. The small sample size

and convenience sampling method may limit the generalizability of the findings. To

enhance the validity and reliability of the results, future research should aim for larger

sample sizes and employ more diverse sampling techniques. Additionally, utilizing a mix

of quantitative and qualitative methods could provide a more comprehensive

understanding of the complex interplay between stress and personality.

Conclusion

This research aimed to investigate the influence of stress on individuals with different

personality traits. The findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between

stress and personality, shedding light on how individuals with varying personality types

respond to and are affected by stressors.

Through the analysis of data collected from a convenience sample of ten individuals and

the utilization of Dr. Howard Glazer's questionnaire test, significant differences in stress

levels and behaviors across different personality types were observed.

The results revealed distinct personality types, namely A1, A2, AB, and B1/B2, each

displaying varying degrees of stress reactivity. Individuals classified as A1 exhibited high

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levels of stress, characterized by prompt work completion, competitiveness, a sense of

urgency, and suppression of emotions. A2 types demonstrated moderate stress levels,

with behaviors like A1 but with less intensity. AB types displayed a moderate stress

response, showing traits common to both A1 and A2. B1 individuals exhibited low stress

levels, demonstrating a calm and unhurried approach to appointments, lower

competitiveness, and a slower work pace. B2 types had similarly low stress levels but

with behaviors closer to the AB personality type.

These findings underscore the significance of considering personality traits when

examining the impact of stress. The research highlights the diverse ways in which

individuals respond to stressors, influenced by their unique personality characteristics.

Understanding these variations can aid in the development of tailored interventions and

coping strategies to promote well-being and resilience.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of this study. The small sample size

and convenience sampling method limit the generalizability of the findings. Further

research employing larger and more diverse samples, as well as mixed-method

approaches, is recommended to enhance the validity and comprehensiveness of future

studies.

In conclusion, this research contributes to our understanding of how stress influences

individuals with different personality traits. The findings underscore the importance of

considering individual differences in stress reactivity and coping mechanisms. By

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recognizing these variations, researchers, practitioners, and individuals can develop

targeted strategies to mitigate the negative impact of stress and promote overall well-

being. Further exploration in this field will deepen our understanding of the complex

interplay between stress and personality, leading to more effective interventions and

support systems.

References
Cooper, C. L., Kirkcaldy, B. D., & Brown, J. (1993). A model of job stress and physical health: the role of
individual differences . Personality and Individual Differences, 653-655.

costa, P., somerfield, & McCrae. (1986). Personality and coping: A reconceptualization.

George, J. M. (1992). The Role of Personality in Organizational Life: Issues and Evidence. Journal of
Management, 185-213.

Ivencevich, J. M. (1984). Type A-B Person-Work Environment Interaction Model for Examining
Occupational Stress and Consequences. human relations, 491-513.

Spector, P. E. (1994). The contribution of personality traits, negative affectivity, locus of control and Type
A to the subsequent reports of job stressors and job strains. Journal of Occupational and
Organizational Psycbology.
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Spence, J. T., Helmreich, R. L., & pred, R. S. (1987). Impatience Versus Achievement Strivings in the Type
A Pattern: Differential Effects on Students' Health and Academic Achievement. Journal of applied
psychology, 522-528.