The Type A (Coronary‐Prone) Behavior Pattern, Aging, and Mortality

Abstract

Young and middle-aged persons displaying the Type A (coronary-prone) behavior pattern have been shown repeatedly to be at substantially increased risk of coronary heart disease. A review of recent empirical research regarding adaptability and survival among the elderly suggests the hypothesis that the clinical significance of Type A behavior may shift radically in old age. Thus, compared to Type B (not coronary-prone) subjects. Type As may be at lesser rather than greater risk of impairment and death.