Externalizing behavior disorders, situational generality, and the type A behavior pattern

Abstract

Measures of the Type A Behavior Pattern (TABP) in children have demonstrated good sensitivity but problematic specificity. Using the most popular measure of childhood TABP, a teacher rating scale called the MYTH, we sought to (a) replicate earlier findings of extensive overlap between TABP and externalizing behavior problems, (b) further distinguish between and extend the empirical networks for the positive (Competition) and negative (Impatience-Aggression) components of TABP, and (c) explore cross-situational generality. Normal boys and those with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) were assessed on multiple instruments in diverse contexts. ADHD boys obtained higher TABP Total and Impatience-Aggression scores than normal boys, and these scores were associated with a wide array of behavior problems and peer difficulties. In contrast, the Competition subscale was related to popularity and athleticism and, inversely, to internalizing problems. Discussion focused on the construct validity of the MYTH, the heterogeneity of boys identified by the MYTH as showing the TABP, and the need for distinguishing research uses of the measure from applications of the TABP concept.