The intrafamilial transmission of rheumatoid arthritis. V. Differences between rheumatoid arthritics and controls on selected personality variables.

IT IS the purpose of this report to present findings which describe some differences in the adult personalities of rheumatoid arthritics and controls. The broad hypotheses investigated in this part of the study derive from an examination of the relevant research literature and, in particular, the several excellent reviews available [l-3]. Specifically, the intent is to provide an adequate description, based on the subjects’ own reports, of three general areas of psychological functioning: (1) symptoms broadly indicative of poor mental health; (2) diverse affective responses; and (3) expression and control of aggression and hostility. Clearly, this part of the study does not seek to confirm a single, focal hypothesis. Rather, its intent is broadly descriptive: it seeks to contribute to the accumulating, but sometimes confusing and inconsistent evidence regarding possible differences between arthritics and controls. Since one of the more confusing areas is the one dealing with expression and control of aggression and hostility, this study accordingly develops a number of different measures in order to achieve a multiple, convergent operationalism (methodological triangulation) as advocated by CAMPBELL and FISKE [4]. In addition, special emphasis will be given to patterns of sex differences, another frequent source of confusion [Sj. Finally, we shall pay attention to any possible differences between national and clinic samples, inasmuch as source of subjects is another probable reason for inconsistencies in results [2].