The relationship between type a, internality–externality, emotional distress and perceived health

Abstract

This study was based on 255 European managers (German and British) responses to specific Occupational Stress Indicator scales ( Cooper et al., 1988) and explored the impact of personality factors (Type A and locus of control) on subjectively perceived job stress, satisfaction at work and physical and psychological health. No significant relationship was reported between personality, work satisfaction and general health. Overall, Type A internals expressed the most job satisfaction with their work situation and better physical and psychological health, although this was found significant only for the sample of British managers. Type A and B externals displayed higher mental illness scores, whereas Type B externals only reported significantly more physical symptoms (physical ill-health). Type B internals appear to report the best health.