The use of flotation isolation to modify important type a components in young adults

The Type A Behavior Pattern has been associated with increased risk for coronary-heart disease. Recently, some researchers in the field. including Friedman and colleagues, have attempted to modify global or component behaviors of the Type A pattern. However, early results have been compromised by methodological difficulties such as lack of controls or small sample size. Effective modification programs have also proved to be time-consuming and complex. This study utilized flotation isolation and compared this technique with a control condition of a darkened relaxed environment, as a short-term method for impacting on self-reported Type A behaviors. Twenty male and 20 female extreme Type A and Type B subjects were randomly placed in a flotation or control envlronment for one hour. Comparison of pre-and post-scores on various measures suggest a greater reduction in Type A characteristics such as hostility, tension, and anxiety in flotation isolation than in the more standard restricted stimuli environment.