Personality Types and Health

Hippocrates who was a doctor in around 400BC, identified personality traits which he described as The Four Humours. These are sanguine, choleric, melancholic and phlegmetic.

He pondered why some people were often ill whereas others seldom needed his help.

The following chart is an overview of the impact of each behaviour type and forms the basis of the popular DISC model of behaviour profiling.

Members of The Perfect Health HUB receive a complimentary DISC behaviour profile and feedback consultation as a member benefit 

Did you know that the way you behave on a day to day basis can positively or negatively affect your health?

Much has been written about behaviour styles in the past 50 years, and thanks to the internet and AI, we are now able to explore the various types with relative ease.

My own expertise lies within the popular DISC model although this brief article summarises the basic Type A and Type B personalities which Girdano  categorised into two distinct groups as part of the Narrow Band Approach, introduced in 1990 as a trait theory of personality.

Type A Personality

Individuals with a Type A personality are characterised by several key traits:

• Competitive: They thrive on competition and often seek to outperform others.
• Desire for Control: Type A individuals prefer to be in control of situations and outcomes.
• Ambition: They possess a strong desire to succeed and achieve their goals.
• Stress Levels: Type A personalities are prone to higher stress levels, often feeling pressured and impatient.
• Work Pace: They tend to work quickly and efficiently, often at the expense of relaxation.

Type B Personality

In contrast, Type B personalities exhibit different characteristics:

• Non-Competitive: They are generally more relaxed and less driven by competition.
• Lack of Control Needs: Type B individuals do not feel the same need for control as Type A individuals.
• Lower Ambition: They may be less driven to achieve high levels of success.
• Relaxation: Type B personalities typically handle stress better and are more likely to relax easily.
• Work Pace: They often work at a slower, steadier pace, focusing more on the process than on the outcome.

Girdano's framework suggests that while individuals may display traits predominantly associated with either Type A or Type B, many people may fall somewhere along a spectrum between these two types. This classification can help in understanding behaviour, particularly in competitive environments like sports, where personality traits can significantly influence performance and stress management.

A type A personality is characteristic by a set of traits that include ambition, competitiveness, a strong drive for achievement, and a high level of organisation.

Individuals with this personality type are often seen as hardworking, goal-oriented, and capable of performing well under pressure. They tend to prioritise efficiency and may have a low tolerance for delays or inefficiencies.

1. High Achievement: Type A individuals often excel in their careers due to their drive and determination. They are typically high achievers, often earning better grades or promotions compared to their peers with type B personalities.
2. Strong Work Ethic: Their commitment to hard work and productivity can lead to significant accomplishments in both personal and professional settings.
3. Effective Leadership: Type A personalities are often seen as proactive leaders, capable of making quick decisions and motivating others to achieve goals.
4. Ability to Work Under Pressure: They thrive in high-stress environments, which can be beneficial in fast-paced or competitive fields.

1. Increased Stress Levels: Type A individuals are more prone to stress and may experience higher levels of anxiety due to their perfectionist tendencies and constant drive for success.
2. Impatience and Irritability: They may become easily frustrated with delays or inefficiencies, leading to impatience and potential conflicts with others.
3. Health Risks: There is some evidence linking type A behaviours, particularly hostility and aggression, to negative health outcomes, including cardiovascular issues. Chronic stress associated with this personality type can also lead to various health problems.
4. Difficulty Relaxing: Type A individuals may struggle to unwind and disconnect from work, which can impact their personal relationships and overall well-being.

In summary, while type A personalities can achieve significant success and demonstrate strong leadership qualities, they also face challenges related to stress management, interpersonal relationships, and health risks.

Understanding these traits can help individuals with type A personalities create a more balanced approach to their personal and professional lives.

Here are the key health concerns linked to Type A personalities:

Early studies, particularly one conducted in the late 1950s, by Friedman and Rosenman, found that individuals with Type A traits had significantly higher cholesterol levels and were more likely to develop CHD compared to their Type B counterparts. 

This connection is thought to stem from the stress and anxiety that Type A individuals often experience, which can elevate blood pressure and contribute to heart problems[2][5].

Those with COPD who exhibit Type A traits may suffer from more severe symptoms and complications, such as increased infections and shortness of breath[2].

This eye condition, characterised by fluid accumulation under the retina, has been linked to stress, which is prevalent in Type A personalities[2].

Type B individuals' relaxed nature may lead to procrastination or lack of urgency in adopting healthy behaviours.

Type B's easygoing approach could result in putting off important tasks or not working efficiently, leading to stress.

Type B's laid-back style may hinder career advancement compared to more driven Type A personalities. Lower income can impact access to healthcare.

While Type B's lower stress levels are beneficial, a very relaxed attitude may increase risk of mental health issues.

Lack of motivation to exercise and maintain healthy habits could contribute to weight problems.

Their relaxed nature protects them from the negative health impacts of chronic stress.

Type B's patience and flexibility help them cope with stressful situations.

Their easygoing approach may lead to more enjoyment of life's simple pleasures.