Are you Type A or Type B?
History of Personality Typing
Do you have a Type A personality or a Type B personality? Do you even know what it means to have a Type A or Type B personality? Though you’ve probably heard the terms, some people are not exactly sure what each means.
These classifications were first proposed by cardiologists Meyer Friedman and R. H. Rosenham in the 1950s, in their effort to find an association between their patients’ tendencies and the prevalence of heart attacks.
Certain personality characteristics, like whether you are an introvert or an extrovert, you were likely born with. Others, such as work ethic or attention to detail, can be learned and developed through life experience – how you were raised, your culture, habits, work life, etc.
What Type are You?
Type A
A person who is said to have a Type A personality is extremely competitive and motivated by rewards and appreciation of others. They are generally discontent with every aspect of their lives and can be overly critical and demanding; are easily frustrated by things like having to wait in line, and frequently remind people of how important their time is. They often respond to frustrating situations with hostility and impatience, and can be rude, easily upset over small things and described as “having a short fuse."
A Type A personality person’s face usually displays tight lips or a clenched jaw, they click or grind their teeth, they have dark circles under their eyes, and often sweat on their forehead or upper lip.
Type B
Type B people are, by contrast, more laid back and relaxed about life than Type A people. “They are friendly, accepting, patient, at ease, and generally content. They are at peace with themselves and others. They show a general sense of harmony with people, events, and life circumstances. They tend to be trusting. They focus on the positive aspects of things, people, and events. Type B folks are self-encouraging, have inner motivation, are stable and have a pleasant mood. They are interested in others and accept trivial mistakes.
We value and respect the experiences of all of our HERWriters, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.
Add a Comment2 Comments
I always said I was a "B player" now YOU have helped me understand that yes I am a type B personality! Thanks for sharing!
July 25, 2010 - 2:42amThis Comment
You're welcome, Princeline. I thought I was a Type A, but very handily tested B! Glad to be a B!
Darlene
July 25, 2010 - 12:02pm