Individual differences in brain structure and resting-state functional connectivity associated with Type A behavior pattern

Abstract

Type A behavior pattern (TABP) is characterized by competitiveness and hostility, time urgency and impatience. These traits can have a significant impact on physical and mental health. We have not found studies focusing on brain structure or functional connectivity correlates associated with individual differences in TABP. The present study used voxel-based morphometry (VBM) and resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) analysis to examine the neural correlates of TABP. The results showed that TABP was positively correlated with regional gray matter volume (rGMV) in the left subgenual anterior cingulate cortex (sgACC), which might reflect immature functioning of this region related to impatience. In addition, TABP was positively correlated with the strength of rsFC between the left ventral striatum and areas in the left ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and the right rostral anterior cingulate cortex (rACC). These regions are associated with achievement striving related to impatience, aggressiveness, and worry under time pressure. In summary, the combination of morphometric results (increased rGMV of the left sgACC) and functional connectivity findings (increased rsFC between the left ventral caudate and the left vmPFC/right rACC in the fronto-striatal network) may provide a valuable basis for a comprehensive understanding of the neural circuitry underlying individual differences in TABP.